What Does a Cavity Look Like? Symptoms, Stages & When to Act
Cavities are the most common chronic disease in the world — affecting over 2.4 billion people. In Poland, the problem concerns 80% of adults. Yet many people don't know how to recognize it — especially at early stages when treatment is simplest.
💡 Important: Cavities on back teeth can develop for months without visible symptoms. preDenti's AI analysis examines photos from hard-to-reach angles too.
What is a cavity?
A cavity is the process of demineralization of hard tooth tissue, caused by bacteria metabolizing sugars from food. They produce acids that dissolve enamel.
Key fact: cavities DON'T hurt at first — early stages are painless.
4 stages of cavities — what does each look like?
Stage 1 — White spot (enamel demineralization)
Appearance: Matte, chalky-white or cream discoloration on the tooth surface. No hole.
Symptoms: Usually none. Sometimes slight sensitivity to sweets.
Priority: ⬜ Worth checking. At this stage, cavities can stop with good hygiene.
Stage 2 — Enamel cavity
Appearance: Darker discoloration (brown, black), possible small hole in enamel.
Symptoms: Sensitivity to cold and sweet. Sometimes a visible hole.
Priority: 🟡 Needs consultation. A filling will stop progression without root canal.
Stage 3 — Dentin cavity
Appearance: Clear dark hole, possibly visible. Black or dark brown discoloration.
Symptoms: Pain when biting, clear sensitivity to cold and heat.
Priority: 🟠 Urgent — worth contacting a dentist quickly.
Stage 4 — Pulp and root cavity
Appearance: Large hole. Possible discoloration of the entire tooth.
Symptoms: Strong throbbing pain, heat sensitivity, night pain, gum swelling.
Priority: 🔴 Very urgent. Root canal or extraction necessary.
How much can cavity-related care cost?
Early diagnosis literally pays off:
| Stage | Typical next steps | Estimated cost |
|---|---|---|
| White spot | Fluoride / observation | €0–20 |
| Enamel | Composite filling | €35–80 |
| Dentin | Filling / overlay | €50–120 |
| Pulp/root | Root canal | €200–500 |
| Advanced | Implant/prosthesis | €700–2,000 |
How to preliminarily look at your teeth?
- Brush your teeth, find good lighting
- Look for: dark spots, matte white areas, visible holes
- Check if any tooth reacts differently to cold or warm water
- Or: send 5 photos to preDenti — AI will do it for you
Check dental photos and see whether you should contact a dentist sooner
5 phone photos. Preliminary AI information in about a minute.
Get a free photo checkWas this article helpful?
