Do you think you have a cavity? Are you not sure about telling someone just in case you don't have one? There are some signs that can help you to figure out if you have a cavity. However, the only a medical professional will be able to tell you if you have a cavity for sure. In order to prevent more damage to your teeth and mouth, it is important to take care of a cavity as soon as possible. That means finding out for sure if your have one.

Defining a Cavity
1. Know that cavities are holes in your teeth. These can be visible, but they may not be. These holes in your teeth are cause by tooth decay. Untreated they can cause damage to your teeth, your gums, and even make you very ill.

2. Remember that a cavity is permanent damage. While there are ways to treat cavities, there is not a way to restore the tooth. A dentist can drill out the damaged areas and fill them with a safe material. You won't get that part of your tooth back.

3. Manage underlying causes. Poor oral hygiene, poor diet, and bad habits such as smoking can all contribute to tooth decay.



Spotting the Warning Signs
1. Know that cavities may or may not have clear symptoms.

2. Note pain. This could be a sign you have a cavity.

3. Look at your teeth. Visible holes or pits in your teeth, brown, black or white staining on any surface of a tooth can all be indications of a cavity.

Seeking Medical Help
1. Find a dentist. Talk to people you trust or go online to find a good dentist.

2. Tell your dentist about the problem area. This will help her to focus on those spots.

3. Get your teeth probed. This physical probing of you teeth will enable the dentist to tell if you have a cavity.

4. Have an x-ray taken. When cavities form between your teeth, it is not always easy to tell they are there.