Tooth Decay (Cavities): symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as tooth hole, caries.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Tooth decay happens when bacteria feeding on sugary or starchy foods produce acids that eat holes (cavities) in the teeth. It starts painlessly and progresses to sharp sensitivity, toothache and infection if ignored. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and limiting sugary snacks prevent most of it.
Symptoms
Sensitivity to sweet, hot or cold foods
Visible holes or dark spots on teeth
Toothache, from occasional twinges to constant pain
Pain on biting
Bad breath or unpleasant taste
Food trapping in a tooth
Causes & risk factors
Frequent sugary drinks, sweets and snacks
Inadequate brushing and flossing
Not using fluoride toothpaste
Dry mouth and frequent snacking between meals
Treatment & self-care
A dentist removes the decay and fills the cavity — early treatment is simple and saves the tooth, while delay leads to root-canal treatment or extraction. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between teeth, and cut down sugary drinks and snacks. A dental check every six to twelve months catches decay while it is still painless.
See a doctor urgently if
Toothache lasting more than a day or two
Pain with facial swelling or fever — urgent
Sensitivity that lingers after the trigger is gone
A broken or visibly holed tooth
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Tooth Decay (Cavities)?
Early signs often include sensitivity to sweet, hot or cold foods, visible holes or dark spots on teeth, toothache, from occasional twinges to constant pain. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Tooth Decay (Cavities) be treated?
A dentist removes the decay and fills the cavity — early treatment is simple and saves the tooth, while delay leads to root-canal treatment or extraction. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between teeth, and cut down sugary drinks and snacks. A dental check every six to twelve months catches decay while it is still painless.
When should I see a doctor about Tooth Decay (Cavities)?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: toothache lasting more than a day or two; pain with facial swelling or fever — urgent; sensitivity that lingers after the trigger is gone; a broken or visibly holed tooth.