Cavities are one of the most common dental problems faced by both children and adults. But despite how common they are, many people don’t actually know what a cavity looks like or how to recognize one early. Detecting cavities in their initial stages can prevent tooth decay from progressing and save you from pain, sensitivity, and costly dental procedures.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What does a cavity look like?” or “How can I tell if I have one?”, this guide from Sherman Oaks dental professionals will help you identify the early signs, causes, and prevention methods for tooth decay.

Understanding What a Cavity Is

A cavity, also known as dental caries, is a permanently damaged area in the hard surface of your tooth that develops into tiny holes or openings. Cavities occur when bacteria in your mouth produce acid that erodes your tooth enamel. Over time, this damage worsens and can reach deeper layers of the tooth, causing pain, infection, and even tooth loss if untreated.

Cavities develop gradually. At first, you might not feel any discomfort, but the damage is already happening underneath. That’s why early detection through regular dental checkups with your Sherman Oaks dentist is so important.

What Does a Cavity Look Like in the Early Stages?

In the beginning, a cavity might not be visible to the naked eye. It starts as a small white or chalky spot on your tooth — a sign that minerals are being lost from the enamel. This stage is known as enamel demineralization. You may not feel pain yet, but this is your first warning sign.

If you look closely in good lighting or under a mirror, you may notice:

• White spots or lines on your teeth

• Slight dullness or discoloration compared to surrounding enamel

• Rough texture when you run your tongue over the tooth

At this stage, cavities can often be reversed with proper fluoride treatment and oral care. Visiting a Sherman Oaks dental office early can help remineralize the enamel and stop decay before it worsens.

What a Moderate Cavity Looks Like

When the decay progresses beyond the enamel, it becomes more noticeable. The once white spots may turn brown, gray, or black, and the tooth surface may appear darker or stained. You might also start feeling mild sensitivity when consuming sweet, hot, or cold foods.

Common signs of a moderate cavity include:

• Brown or dark spots on the tooth

• Visible pits or small holes in the enamel

• Sensitivity to temperature or sugary foods

• Discomfort when biting down

This is typically when people realize something is wrong and seek help. The cavity has now reached the dentin — the layer beneath your enamel — which is softer and decays faster. If left untreated, bacteria can quickly spread deeper, causing more severe damage.

What an Advanced Cavity Looks Like

Once the decay reaches the pulp (the innermost part of your tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels), it can cause significant pain and visible damage. At this stage, you might notice:

• Dark brown or black holes in the tooth

• Severe toothache or throbbing pain

• Swelling around the gum line

• Bad breath or foul taste

• Tooth breakage or crumbling edges

An advanced cavity can sometimes make the tooth appear discolored or even partially destroyed. If infection spreads, you may develop an abscess (a pocket of pus), requiring urgent dental care.
In such cases, your Sherman Oaks dentist might recommend a root canal treatment or a crown to restore and protect the tooth.

Cavities Between Teeth: Harder to Spot

Not all cavities are visible on the tooth surface. Cavities that form between teeth — called interproximal cavities — can be tricky to detect without X-rays. These hidden cavities often go unnoticed until they cause pain or sensitivity.

You might notice:

• Food frequently getting stuck between certain teeth

• Increased flossing discomfort

• Sensitivity in specific areas

Your dentist in Sherman Oaks can detect these cavities using dental imaging during a routine checkup. That’s why regular visits are crucial, even if you think your teeth look fine.

What Does a Cavity Feel Like?

Sometimes, how a cavity feels can be just as telling as how it looks. Early cavities might cause no symptoms, but as decay progresses, you could experience:

• Tooth sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods

• Mild to severe toothache that comes and goes

• Pain when chewing or biting

• Visible holes or roughness on the tooth surface

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a Sherman Oaks dental expert immediately for a thorough evaluation and treatment.

How to Prevent Cavities from Forming

Cavities are preventable with the right oral hygiene routine and professional care. Here’s how to keep your smile healthy and cavity-free:

1. Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.

2. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.

3. Limit sugary and acidic foods that feed harmful bacteria.

4. Drink plenty of water to wash away food debris and maintain saliva flow.

5. Get regular dental cleanings with your Sherman Oaks dental team every six months.

6. Use mouthwash with fluoride or antibacterial properties.

Prevention is always better (and cheaper) than treatment — and consistent care keeps your smile bright and healthy for years to come.

Treatment Options for Cavities

If you already have a cavity, don’t panic — modern dentistry offers effective treatments for all stages of tooth decay. Your Sherman Oaks dentist may recommend:

• Fluoride treatments: Ideal for early-stage cavities to remineralize enamel.

• Dental fillings: Common for small to moderate cavities; restores the tooth structure.

• Crowns: For larger cavities where much of the tooth is damaged.

• Root canal therapy: Needed when decay reaches the pulp, to remove infection and save the tooth.

• Tooth extraction: As a last resort, if the damage is beyond repair.

Prompt treatment not only relieves pain but also prevents future complications like infection or tooth loss.

When to Visit a Sherman Oaks Dentist

Don’t wait for pain to become unbearable before seeking help. Early diagnosis and treatment can save your natural tooth and reduce the need for invasive procedures. If you notice:

• Any discoloration or visible holes

• Sensitivity or discomfort when eating

• Bad breath or a bad taste that won’t go away

• Swelling near a tooth or gums

Schedule a dental checkup as soon as possible. Sherman Oaks dental specialists can examine your teeth, identify cavities at any stage, and provide personalized care to restore your oral health.

Final Thoughts

Knowing what a cavity looks like empowers you to take charge of your dental health. From subtle white spots to visible dark holes, cavities progress in stages — and catching them early makes all the difference.

With proper oral hygiene and regular visits to your Sherman Oaks dentist, you can prevent decay, preserve your natural teeth, and maintain a confident, healthy smile for life.