HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A CAVITY?

Quarryville Family Dentistry • March 6, 2025

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE A CAVITY?

How Do I Know If I Have a Cavity?

Taking care of your oral and overall health must be a priority. Knowing when you need to call your dentist is important. Practicing good oral hygiene habits help to prevent tooth decay, cavities, and many other issues. Cavities are one of the most common issues patients face, and about 30 percent of Americans have untreated dental cavities. Leaving a cavity untreated can destroy your teeth leading to tooth loss, infection, and other more serious conditions.



It is helpful for patients to understand what a cavity is, and also know what symptoms to look out for if you think you may have a cavity.

What is a Cavity?

A cavity is when bacteria or food build up and form plaque on your teeth. The bacteria eat away at the enamel on your teeth and cause decay. Good oral hygiene habits are so important, and brushing and flossing can help you get rid of the plaque build up to prevent cavities from developing. Once the cavity is formed there is a small hole in your tooth, and if left untreated the cavity can destroy your tooth or develop an infection.

Cavity

What Are the Signs of a Cavity?

There are signs you can look out for that may indicate you have a cavity. If you experience any of these signs we encourage you to contact our office, and our staff will get you in as soon as possible. Our team always works to keep our patient’s teeth and mouth healthy and pain free.

  • Sensitivity to hot and cold that lingers and does not go away
  • Sensitivity to sweet foods or drinks
  • A toothache that is on or around one or more teeth
  • Pain when you bite down or pain during eating
  • Discoloration, white spots, or staining on a tooth
  • A small hole or mark on your tooth

Need to Contact Our Office?

Knowing these signs can help you decide if you need to contact a dentist. We always tell patients to never hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. We are here to help, and a cavity should never be left untreated. 


If you think you may have a cavity and need to schedule an appointment, contact our office and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

< Older Post Newer Post >
What Should I Know About Teeth Whitening?

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT TEETH WHITENING?

By Quarryville Family Dentistry • April 3, 2025
Professional whitening is effective at removing years of stains and discoloration from the teeth. Whether you're looking to boost your confidence or are going to be attending a wedding, reunion or another big event, a bright and white smile is sure to improve your appearance. Expert whitening is performed in our office or provided to you using a professional-grade take-home kit. Whitening results can last for months to one or more years, and maintaining your results is key to ensuring that you'll always have a gorgeous smile.
Quick Solutions for Toothaches and Dental Emergencies

QUICK SOLUTIONS FOR TOOTHACHES & DENTAL EMERGENCIES

By Quarryville Family Dentistry • April 3, 2025
In a world where health is paramount, it's crucial to be well-prepared for unexpected dental emergencies. Welcome to Quarryville Family Dentistry, your trusted dental care partner in Quarryville, PA. Dr. Rick Leibold and our dedicated team are here to educate you on dental emergencies, ensuring you're equipped with the knowledge to handle any dental crisis that may arise.
How Come Some People Get Cavities Easier Than Others?

HOW COME SOME PEOPLE GET CAVITIES EASIER THAN OTHERS?

By Quarryville Family Dentistry • February 6, 2025
Cavities are always something we try to avoid with brushing and flossing each day. You may notice you get cavities frequently and others don’t. This doesn’t seem fair, but there are other factors that play into keeping your teeth free of decay that you may not realize. There are ways to reduce your risk for cavities outside of brushing and flossing regularly.