Question 1

What are the signs that I have a cavity?

Accepted Answer

Common signs of a cavity include toothache or spontaneous pain, sensitivity to sweet, hot, or cold foods and drinks, visible holes or pits in a tooth, brown, black, or white staining on tooth surfaces, and pain when biting down. Early cavities often have no symptoms at all — this is why dental check-ups every 6 months are recommended.

Question 2

Can cavities be prevented?

Accepted Answer

Yes, cavities can be prevented by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, limiting sugary and acidic food and drink intake, visiting a dentist every 6 months, and applying dental sealants on back teeth. PhilHealth covers dental cleaning up to twice per year at accredited clinics in the Philippines.

Question 3

What happens if a cavity is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If left untreated, a cavity progresses through enamel into the dentin and eventually the pulp (nerve), causing infection, abscess, and severe pain. This can require root canal treatment (₱3,000–₱8,000) or tooth extraction (₱500–₱3,000). Early treatment with a filling (₱400–₱3,500) is significantly cheaper and less painful.

Question 4

How do I know if I am at high risk for cavities?

Accepted Answer

You may be at higher risk for cavities if you eat or drink sugary or acidic items frequently, brush less than twice a day, skip flossing, experience dry mouth, have not visited a dentist in over a year, or have a history of cavities. This free quiz assesses your cavity risk based on your daily habits and oral health routine.

Cavity Risk Quiz

Know Your Cavity Risk