It has long been established that toothbrushing twice daily and flossing once a day goes a long way in keeping our pearly whites healthy. A healthy smile is one of the first things people notice about us.
But what happens when that smile is not quite so healthy? An off-color smile is often a sign of tooth stains, cavities, and gum disease.
Color can be deceiving when it comes to oral hygiene. Here’s how to tell the difference between tooth stain vs cavity.
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What is a Tooth Stains and Cavities?
A tooth stain is a discoloration on the tooth’s surface, while a cavity is a hole in the tooth, usually located beneath the enamel. While the two terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they are very different.
The best way to tell the difference between a tooth stain and a cavity is to have a dentist take a look. Tooth stains are generally localized and do not cause pain or sensitivity; however, holes involve decay that can lead to toothache and sensitivity.
Tooth stains can be removed with professional whitening, whereas cavities require filling or restoration. Staying on top of your oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly is essential. This is to keep your teeth healthy and detect any possible cavities or tooth stains.
Causes
Tooth stains and cavities are both (oral) health issues that affect the teeth. While both are not necessarily a cause for concern, knowing the difference between them is essential to care for the teeth properly.
A tooth stain is caused by food, drinks, smoking, certain medications, and mouth rinses and is a discoloration of the enamel. A cavity, however, is a hole in a tooth caused by excessive plaque build-up combined with sugar and bacteria.
To differentiate between the two, looking for any signs of pain, such as sensitivity, when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and drinks is essential. It is also necessary to look for any discoloration or brown or black spots in the tooth. If any of these are present, visiting a dentist near me to diagnose and treat the condition properly is best.
Symptoms
Tooth stains and cavities can have many of the same symptoms, such as sensitivity to temperature, pain when chewing, discoloration of the tooth, and visible pits or holes. However, some differences in symptoms can help determine which one is present.
A tooth stain will appear more as a mark on the tooth’s surface. It won’t cause the same type of pain as a cavity, nor will it involve any holes in the tooth. On the other hand, a niche will cause more pain than a stain, especially when exposed to foods, drinks, and temperatures.
It also can be visible as pits or holes when assessed by an x-ray or dental exam. If the person is unsure what is causing the pain, visiting their dentist is the best way to a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.
Examinations
When examining a patient’s teeth, it is essential to differentiate between a tooth stain and a cavity. The most common type of tooth stain is caused by food and drink consumption, such as coffee, tea, or tobacco, resulting in enamel discoloration.
Conversely, cavities are caused by the breakdown of enamel and dentin caused by the acid produced by bacteria in the mouth and can lead to tooth decay. A dentist or hygienist will often use a probe and mirror to examine the teeth closely to tell the difference between a tooth stain and a cavity during an examination.
If the stain is easily removable by brushing, it likely is a tooth stain, not a cavity. However, if there appears to be damage on or around the color, this is a sign of a cavity, and further treatment may be required.
Appearance
The appearance of a tooth stain and cavity can be very similar. This can make it difficult to tell the difference. A tooth stain usually occurs on the tooth’s surface and can be yellow, brown, or black.
In contrast, a cavity is typically found inside the tooth and is usually characterized as a white, brown, or black hole in the enamel. To make sure that a stain is just a stain and not a cavity, it is essential to see your dentist.
A dentist can assess visual signs of decay and determine the exact cause of the discoloration. To prevent both tooth staining and cavities, it is essential to stick to a regular healthy oral care routine to keep your teeth bright and healthy.
Treatment
Tooth staining and cavities are distinct oral health ailments; knowing their differences is essential when seeking treatment. Tooth staining occurs when particles or pigments from certain foods and drinks deposit on the enamel surface of your teeth, giving your teeth a discolored appearance.
Conversely, poor oral hygiene habits result in cavities when acid and bacteria erode your tooth’s enamel. Treatment for staining may involve a whitening procedure to diminish the effects of staining.
For cavities, it’s essential to see your dentist as soon as possible so they can determine what treatment is necessary. This may involve anything from a simple filling to a root canal. Regular professional dental cleanings, at-home brushing and flossing, and avoiding sugary foods and beverages are vital for tooth staining and cavities.
Dental Care
Tooth stains caused by dietary habits, smoking, or some medications are cosmetic and will not cause pain. Conversely, cavities can be painful and are caused by the growth of bacteria in the enamel of your teeth. If left unchecked, cavities may cause tooth decay, resulting in infection, malfunctioning of the tooth, and eventually aggravated pain or extraction.
Tooth stains can be removed easily with brushing or special whitening agents, while cavities require fillings, crowns, and other procedures to heal and restore oral health. Therefore, it is essential to distinguish between tooth stains and holes to ensure proper dental care.
Understanding the Difference Between Tooth Stain vs Cavity
Ensuring your teeth are healthy is essential and starts with understanding the difference between tooth stain vs cavity. Dentists can help you tell the difference and provide preventive treatments that can help you retain a healthy, bright smile. If you feel you may have a cavity, contact your dentist as soon as possible to discuss treatment options.
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