CAVITIES & TOOTH DECAY

Early Signs of Cavities and Tooth Decay: What to Look For

Last updated 06/25
Dr Monika

This blog has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Monika Negi, a qualified Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologist with 5+ years of experience.

Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
  1. An early cavity is a sign of the first stage of tooth decay, known as enamel demineralization. At this stage, the decay has not caused structural damage or penetrated the tooth’s enamel into the softer dentin layer underneath.
  2. Early cavities may appear as small white or brown spots on your enamel. They typically look chalky and may cause tooth sensitivity.
  3. It’s difficult to detect early tooth decay on your own, so getting regular dental checkups is crucial.
  4. Treatment for cavities depends on the extent of decay. Early cavities may be reversed with fluoride treatments while more advanced cavities may require fillings, crowns, root canals, or extractions.