Do I Have a Cavity or a Stain?

Cavities and tooth stains are very different, but they can look similar depending on the severity.

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity is another word for severe tooth decay. It occurs when the acid produced by bacteria erodes holes in your tooth enamel. When untreated, these holes grow and can spread to the innermost layers of your tooth, leading to severe tooth pain, infection, or tooth loss. Early-stage decay can appear as white spots or streaks due to demineralization, but severe cavities can appear as black, gray, or brown spots.

To prevent decay, you should maintain great oral hygiene routines at home and visit the dentist at least every six months for a cleaning and checkup. Dental sealants, which we apply into the grooves of your molars, can also reduce your risk of developing decay and cavities.

Causes of Teeth Discoloration

Dark-colored tartar, red wine, coffee, tobacco, and aging all cause staining. Stains can look yellow, brown, or orange. Most of the time, stains only affect your smile’s appearance, not its health. However, your teeth can stain because you aren’t brushing and flossing well enough. This will have negative oral health consequences.

It’s impossible to prevent all tooth stains, but you can keep your teeth whiter by brushing and flossing every day and routinely visiting the dentist. Additionally, limit your consumption of sugary foods and beverages like coffee, soda, and red wine.

Improving the Health & Appearance of Your Teeth at Dental Health Associates

Cavities and general tooth discoloration have different treatments. For tooth decay, there are fillings and dental crowns. For stains, our office offers custom whitening trays and one-size trays with professional-strength whitening gel. Teeth whitening fades over time, so maintain good brushing and flossing. For a permanent fix, there are veneers, which also reshape and strengthen your teeth.

If you’re noticing discoloration on your teeth or experiencing symptoms like sensitivity and pain, please contact us today! We can identify whether the problem is a cavity or a stain.

Categorised in: Cosmetic Dentistry