One of the most common dental problems that dentists treat is tooth decay. Tooth decay starts as a simple cavity and can cause permanent damage to the root of the tooth if it isn’t caught early. Your best course of action is to identify a cavity in its initial stages so that it can be cleared, disinfected and protected with a filling. Here are a few signs that you may have a cavity that should be treated by 
a dentist at Sanford Center for Total Health Dentistry in Allentown PA.
A Toothache
As a cavity gets deeper, it often starts to become painful. The bacteria that causes tooth decay infects the inner layers of the tooth and inflames the tissue, causing pain. Any unusual ache, soreness or tooth sensitivity that seems to be progressing could be a sign of a cavity that needs to be treated.
You Eat a Lot of Sweets
One sign that you may have a cavity is if you have a serious “sweet tooth.” Patients who eat a lot of sugary candies, drinks and other sweet treats are more vulnerable to developing cavities—especially when they don’t brush and floss regularly. Sugar is food for bad bacteria, so if you eat a lot of it, make it a priority to see your Allentown PA dentist for regular cavity checkups.
Spots or Holes on Tooth Surfaces
One of the clearest signs of a cavity is a hole, dark area or discoloration on the top of the tooth. That discoloration may be a place where bacteria is eating away at the enamel. This is one reason why it’s important to look at your back teeth in the mirror regularly to check for problems. Also, when your dentist checks your teeth at your next appointment, any stickiness or softness on the surface may be a potential sign of a cavity.
See Your Dentist Soon
If you think that you may have a cavity, schedule a checkup with a dentist at Sanford Center for Total Health Dentistry in Allentown PA today. The cavity can be treated and filled in just one appointment. Call the office at (610) 820-6000.