And Why You Shouldn’t Wait for the Pain to Start
When most people think of cavities, they imagine a sharp jolt of pain or a dramatic trip to the dentist—but the truth is, cavities can quietly develop long before they ever start to hurt.
In fact, by the time you’re in pain, the damage is already done.
At Dental Comfort Associates in Kearny, NJ, we help patients catch tooth decay early—before it turns into a root canal or tooth loss. Here are five subtle, easy-to-miss signs that a cavity may be forming:
1. Tooth Sensitivity That’s Getting Worse
Does sipping hot coffee or biting into something cold make you wince? Occasional sensitivity is normal, but if it’s happening more often—or in a specific tooth—it could be an early sign that decay has eroded your enamel and is exposing the dentin underneath.
2. Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away
No matter how often you brush or pop a mint, chronic bad breath (or a bad taste in your mouth) could mean bacteria is collecting in a cavity. As that decay builds, it produces odor-causing compounds that regular brushing can’t erase.
3. Unusual Discoloration
A small dark spot, white patch, or shadow on your tooth might not seem like a big deal—but these subtle changes can be early indicators of enamel breakdown or internal decay. Don’t ignore them, especially if they’re not going away.
4. Rough or Sticky Spots
Have you ever run your tongue over a tooth and noticed a rough edge or area that feels “sticky”? That texture change can be a clue that your enamel is weakening or that a cavity has started to form—even if the surface still looks mostly normal.
5. Food Always Gets Stuck in One Spot
If food seems to get trapped between the same two teeth—or in a specific groove of a molar—it could be due to a cavity changing the shape of your tooth. This can create small gaps or holes that act like magnets for crumbs and sugars.
Why Early Detection Matters
Catching cavities early means less drilling, less cost, and more tooth saved. With advanced imaging, gentle cleanings, and a prevention-first approach, Dr. Nadim Saad and our caring team can help you stay ahead of problems before they start to hurt.
✅ Think You Might Have a Cavity?
Don’t wait for it to hurt. Book your checkup today at Dental Comfort Associates in Kearny.
📍 Address: 837 Kearny Ave, Kearny, NJ
📞 Call: (201) 998-1400
🌐 Visit: www.dentalcomfortassociates.com
Your smile deserves proactive care. Let’s keep it strong, healthy, and pain-free! 🦷✨