By the time you feel pain from a cavity, it's usually quite advanced. Here are the early signs that a cavity is forming — before the pain starts.

Cavities don't appear overnight. They develop gradually over months, sometimes years. The earlier they're caught, the simpler and cheaper the treatment. That's why regular check-ups matter — and why knowing what to look for at home helps too.

One of the earliest signs of a developing cavity is a chalky white spot on the surface of a tooth. This is demineralisation — the enamel is losing minerals due to acid attack from plaque bacteria. At this stage, the damage can still be reversed with fluoride treatment and improved hygiene.

These white spots often appear near the gum line or on the chewing surfaces of back teeth — places where plaque tends to build up.

As demineralisation progresses, the white spot turns brown or black. This is a cavity forming. It might look like a stain at first, but unlike stains from food or drink, it won't brush away. If you notice a spot that looks different from the rest of your tooth, get it checked.

If you regularly find food getting stuck between the same two teeth, it could mean a cavity is forming in that space. The cavity creates an uneven surface where food debris collects. This is especially common in the pits and grooves of back teeth.

When a cavity is forming, you might notice a brief, sharp sensitivity when you eat something sweet. This happens because the enamel is thinning and the nerve inside the tooth is starting to react. Unlike cold sensitivity, which can have other causes, sweet sensitivity is more of a red flag.

Mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks can be normal, especially if it's short-lived. But if it becomes more pronounced or lingers after the food or drink is gone, it could mean the cavity has progressed into the softer layer beneath the enamel.

Run your tongue over your teeth. If you feel a small pit, groove, or hole that doesn't smooth out when you touch it, that's a cavity. The earlier you feel it, the smaller it likely is — and the easier it is to treat.

Don't wait for pain. By the time a cavity hurts, it may have reached the inner part of the tooth where the nerve lives. Make an appointment with your dentist. They can confirm whether a cavity is present and recommend treatment — often a simple filling if it's caught early.

Regular check-ups every six months are your best defence. Your dentist can spot cavities that aren't visible or detectable at home, sometimes before you notice any symptoms at all.