Common Symptoms of Tooth Decay

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Common Symptoms of Tooth Decay

How your dentist in Lansing, MI, can help relieve tooth decay pain

Tooth decay can sneak up on you. Sometimes you will notice a toothache, but other times, you may not notice any signs or symptoms. Fortunately, your dentist can diagnose and treat tooth decay very effectively. Dr. Scott Stone of Smiles by Stone Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Lansing, MI, offers comprehensive dental care, including state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatments to help relieve tooth decay pain.

Do you have tooth decay?

The truth is, only your dentist can tell for sure if you have tooth decay, but there are some alarming signs and symptoms that you may notice. You may have tooth decay if you experience:

  • Sharp, stabbing tooth pain when you chew or bite down
  • Frequent, aching tooth pain that doesn’t go away
  • Tooth pain that increases when you eat or drink hot, cold, or sweet foods/beverages
  • A light or dark spot on a tooth that doesn’t go away
  • A brown or black stain that doesn’t go away
  • A noticeable crevice, crack, or hole in your tooth

Mild-to-moderate tooth decay can usually be repaired with just a simple filling, or a dental crown if you have lost a large amount of tooth structure. Dental fillings and crowns can provide strong protection, and they can also make your smile more beautiful. That’s because tooth-colored filling materials like composite have become a popular, effective choice for dental fillings. Many dental crowns are now made with porcelain, which is light-reflective and looks just like tooth enamel. Both of these options blend perfectly with your smile.

If you have severe tooth decay which has penetrated to the innermost layer of your tooth, an area known as the pulp, you probably need a root canal. Don’t worry—root canals are the go-to option to treat severe tooth pain and still retain your tooth.

Concerned? Give us a call

If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of tooth decay, there isn't a moment to lose! Early diagnosis and treatment leads to a better outcome for you and your smile. To learn more about restorative treatments like fillings, crowns, and other dental services, call Dr. Scott Stone of Smiles by Stone Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Lansing, MI, at (517) 482-5546. Call today!

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