What Do Cavities Look Like? A Complete Guide for Patients

Cavities are among the most common dental concerns people face, but many individuals are still unsure about what do cavities look like during their early stages. Since cavities develop gradually, they can often go unnoticed until the damage has advanced significantly. Identifying the signs early allows you to seek timely treatment, avoid discomfort, and prevent the need for more invasive dental procedures later. If you live in Sherman Oaks and are wondering what do cavities look like, this guide will help you recognize the warning signs and understand what to expect when it comes to treatment.

What Is a Cavity?

A cavity, also called dental caries or tooth decay, is permanent damage that occurs when the enamel—the hard, outer layer of your teeth—begins to break down due to acids produced by bacteria. When sugars and starches from food mix with bacteria in the mouth, they form plaque, which sticks to the surface of the teeth. If not removed by brushing and flossing, plaque produces acids that erode enamel and eventually create holes or pits in the tooth.

Cavities may seem small at first, but without treatment, they can spread deeper into the tooth, causing pain, infection, and even tooth loss. That’s why spotting them early—either on your own or during a dental exam in Sherman Oaks—is so important.

What Do Cavities Look Like in the Early Stages?

In their beginning stages, cavities can be very subtle. Many people think of cavities only as big, dark holes in the teeth, but the reality is that tooth decay starts much earlier and with much smaller changes.

Here are the early visual signs of cavities:

1. White Spots on Teeth
   Before a cavity fully forms, you may notice faint chalky white spots on the enamel. These spots indicate the loss of minerals and are the earliest warning sign of decay. At this stage, the cavity may still be reversible with fluoride treatments and improved oral hygiene.

2. Yellow or Brown Discoloration
   As decay progresses, the enamel begins to change color. The white spots may turn yellow, light brown, or even grayish. This happens because the enamel is thinning, allowing the darker dentin underneath to show through.

3. Small Pits or Rough Areas
   You may see tiny pits, grooves, or holes forming on the tooth’s surface. These are often visible on the chewing surfaces of molars, where food particles and bacteria tend to get stuck.

4. Dark Spots or Black Areas
   In more advanced stages, cavities can look like dark brown or black spots on the teeth. At this point, the decay has usually penetrated deeper layers of the tooth, and treatment is necessary to stop it from spreading further.

What Do Advanced Cavities Look Like?

If cavities are not treated, they will continue to progress, and the visual signs become more noticeable.

• Large Holes in Teeth – Cavities can form visible craters that you can feel with your tongue.

• Darkening or Blackening of the Tooth – The tooth may appear discolored throughout.

• Broken or Worn Tooth Structure – In severe cases, parts of the tooth may break off, leaving sharp edges or gaps.

• Swelling or Redness in Gums Around the Tooth – When cavities reach the root, infection can occur, which also affects surrounding gum tissue.

For residents of Sherman Oaks, spotting these signs early can save you from root canals or tooth extractions.

Can You Always See Cavities on Your Own?

Not always. Cavities can form in places that are hard to see, such as between teeth or underneath existing dental fillings. Sometimes, the only symptoms may be sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, or occasional toothaches. That’s why routine dental exams and X-rays are so important. Dentists in Sherman Oaks use advanced imaging tools to detect cavities long before they cause visible or painful problems.

Why Early Detection Matters

Cavities don’t heal on their own. Once the enamel is damaged, it cannot grow back naturally. Early detection allows for simple treatments like fillings, fluoride applications, or sealants, while delaying care often leads to more complex treatments such as crowns, root canals, or even extractions.

Residents in Sherman Oaks who schedule regular dental checkups can benefit from early cavity detection, which saves time, money, and discomfort in the long run.

How to Prevent Cavities from Forming

While knowing what cavities look like is important, prevention is even better. Here are some essential ways to keep your teeth healthy:

• Brush Twice a Day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and bacteria.

• Floss Daily to clean between teeth where brushes can’t reach.

• Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks since sugar fuels the bacteria that cause cavities.

• Drink Plenty of Water to wash away food particles and keep your mouth hydrated.

• Schedule Regular Dental Visits with a trusted Sherman Oaks dentist for exams and cleanings.

Treatment Options for Cavities in Sherman Oaks

If you suspect a cavity, your dentist in Sherman Oaks will evaluate the extent of the damage and recommend treatment options, which may include:

• Fluoride Treatment – For very early-stage cavities.

• Dental Fillings – The most common treatment where decayed material is removed and replaced.

• Crowns – For larger cavities that weaken the tooth.

• Root Canal Therapy – When decay reaches the pulp and causes infection.

• Tooth Extraction – For severe cases when the tooth cannot be saved.

Final Thoughts

Cavities may start small, but they can quickly become serious if left untreated. Knowing what cavities look like—from faint white spots to dark holes—can help you take action before permanent damage occurs. If you live in Sherman Oaks and notice any suspicious changes in your teeth, schedule an appointment with a local dentist right away. Regular checkups, good oral hygiene, and early intervention are the best ways to protect your smile and avoid painful dental problems in the future.