3 min read. You'll find pit and fissure cavities on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. First, when you eat or drink, food particles and carbohydrates linger on your teeth and are digested by the bacteria in your mouth and in accumulated plaque. Treatments for a black tooth. Cavities: Just like tooth decay, cavities can cause black stains on teeth. ”. A stain, on the other hand, is a discoloration caused by drinks and food. Best remineralizing toothpaste for sensitive teeth: Sensodyne Pronamel. However, not all black or dark spots on the teeth indicate decay. (See also Overview of Tooth Disorders . This causes tooth decay and cavities, which can give the tooth a black or brown appearance if left untreated. A sudden injury to your tooth can. The black spot is a cavity caused by tooth decay. This is hydrochloric acid, which he leaves on for approximately 2 minutes. You might even ask your dentist to take a look at your technique in-office and make sure you’re covering all. Another sign that a retainer needs cleaning is it keeps breaking or cracking. bad breath. Abstract. brush nicely as said before . . Tobacco — Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause medical and dental problems, including black spots on the teeth. For instance, when you drink a beverage known to leave stains and spots on your teeth, make sure you drink through a straw. Reasons why your tooth is black on the outside can include: Tooth decay. One of my teeth at the back of my mouth has a blackish colored spot right on top - or rather, the flat part that meets the other tooth below it. Meet your doctor. Brown. Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, causing dark stains over time. Habitual smoking makes the surface of the teeth stained to brown or black. Alcohol intake is minimum. That’s why white spots on teeth are also the first signs of a developing cavity. cavity always? Well, not necessarily. It’s due to excessive fluoride ingestion during tooth development, typically because of natural mineral levels or well water where you live. Let's learn with Vinmec the causes, signs and the safest way to remove black spots on teeth. Teeth discolorations can manifest in various shades – from yellow and brown. Black Spots on Teeth That Aren’t. What are the repercussions of ingesting mouthwash? It's usually okay to give a little saliva, but you should be aware of the ingredients. 3. A cavity and stain, both start off as a black spot on the tooth. A cavity is a tiny hole in the tooth in its early stages. One of the most common reasons for black spots on your teeth is tooth decay or cavities. However, the long-term solution to is to seek treatment for your bulimia. When the tissue at the base of a tooth darkens or turns black, it is known as linear gingival pigmentation. Dark patches on your teeth may not be cavities if you don’t feel pain or irritation. As discussed above, if this plaque build-up around gums is not eliminated by brushing and flossing, it will calcify and harden into tartar, also known as calculus. Regular brushing with fluoridated tooth paste and extra soft bristle brush will help your to prevent dental decay. The third molars, or wisdom teeth, are the last to erupt. 2. Kids are more vulnerable to this. But your dentist can take a closer look to see if the spot is actually a cavity. Here are. A hole might start off small and then become bigger and deeper if the cavity goes untreated. However, there are many other symptoms that indicate it is a cavity rather than a stain: Visible holes in the teeth. This can lead to something called decalcification. However, there are many other symptoms that indicate it is a cavity rather than a stain: Visible holes in the teeth. Contents Overview Possible Causes Care and Treatment When. Black or brown spots on teeth can result from a whole host of factors, but some of the most common are: Fluorosis, or excessive fluoride intake, can cause brown pits on the biting surface of the teeth—especially the back molars—and discolor the enamel. Avoid high-sugar snacks or sugary drinks such as soda and sports drinks. You can remove minor tooth stains via teeth whitening treatments. A cavity forms when the build-up of plaque, which contains acids, is allowed to erode the surface enamel of a tooth. Black Spots on Teeth That Aren’t Cavities: Unveiling the Mystery – Mt. The development of cavities is caused by: Poor oral hygiene. This buildup won’t be removed by brushing or other home hygiene procedures. Causes include tobacco use, dental trauma, poor oral hygiene and certain foods, drinks and medications. White spots form when minerals are lacking in areas of the enamel. Another cause of dark spots on teeth could be tooth decay. Age 17–25 is when you most often see them. If those spots. Causes of Black Spots on Teeth. The cavities may be a number of different colors from yellow to black. Major causes of tooth decay are sugary, sticky foods and beverages. Caitlin O'Hara for The New York Times. This cavity treatment is not commonly used in adults due to the discoloration that can occur. While some types of discolouration may not be serious - apart from their aesthetic effect - dark or black tooth stains may actually indicate something more serious, like teeth cavities. It's important to determine that the discoloration is in fact superficial stains on your child's dental enamel and not cavities that have begun to erode the tooth. swelling around the affected area. eating disorders, such as anorexia and. Tooth decay starts at the tooth’s surface and outer layer, called. The black spot can be dashed or solid; it can be a thick line or maybe disconnected black dots. Some direct causes of staining consist of: frequently consuming or drinking a dark food product, such as coffee. I assumed it was a cavity. That’s why white spots on teeth are also the first signs of a developing cavity. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are crucial for a healthy and beautiful smile. Have a look at the unique symptoms while having a cavity. The main difference lies in the latter stages of both conditions. While pretty. These spots may then progress to black. And unlike your outer enamel, fluoride treatments won’t help restore damaged dentin. Poor oral hygiene exacerbates tartar buildup, leading to. Black teeth can occur for numerous reasons. The color of the stain on the tooth may vary depending on the cause, such as yellow, red, or brown patches. However, it leaves behind a black spot where tooth decay occurred. The long-term use of tobacco, smoking and acidic food and drinks like wine, coffee, or tea will result in yellowish or brownish staining of the teeth. In simple words, a black spot because bacteria have been encouraged to grow on the tooth surface, leading the tooth to be damaged. However, there are many other symptoms that indicate it is a cavity rather than a stain: Visible holes in the teeth. 3. Black spot. They can be signs of tooth decay, staining of the teeth or even an old filling that you forgot about, Quartey-Sagaille said. When bacteria form, plaque and acids attack the tooth, they create small holes in your tooth that can turn into cavities. There are these small holes/dents in my molars that aren't black or dark, though it's pretty sensitive. If your teeth or spots on your teeth start to showcase colors like: Brown; Deep yellow; Black; Then it may be a sign that your teeth are starting to develop cavities. However, as resorption worsens, symptoms often develop. Periodontal disease. Other times, a person will have what appears to be black, pinpoint-like. Unusual color: Non-cavity stains are usually a different hue than the teeth. Genetics – Some congenital conditions like dentinogenesis imperfecta can cause grey, brown, or black discoloration of teeth. They did warn me that I had the beginning stages of gingivitis in several places and had a lot of. Cavities are small spots with borders. The nicotine in tobacco causes brown and yellow stains on teeth, whether through smoking or chewing. Cavities can also cause black spots. Cavities need treatments, usually fillings, or they can continue to grow. The chalky appearance of these white spot lesions (WSLs) is an optical effect caused by mineral loss underneath the tooth’s surface enamel. Some medications can affect the color of the gums. not getting enough fluoride. 4. 22 mins ago Pressure Point for Mouth Pain: Unlocking Natural Relief Techniques. Last medically reviewed on August 28. Melanin can be altered by a variety of diseases and disorders that affect the production of this pigment. Symptoms of an abscess. Dogs will rarely use blackened teeth for chewing. After about 2 minutes, Dr. . Your gums may also swell, turn red, or become sore. Trusted Source. However, they may be a sign of a more serious health condition like oral. In fact, most causes of braces stains are related to poor oral hygiene. Kelly DMD 2 days ago 1 month ago 5 months ago 2 years ago Pinhole Gum Surgery: As Your Alternative. It is important to address black holes on teeth through proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist to prevent further damage. Cavities in other parts of the mouth are often not visible without an X-ray. I'm not a dentist, but from my personal experience, they could be cavities but they could also be dental caries (which, I think, are pre-cavity issues). Interior damage to the tooth. You must have seen it in a lot of home remedies, and that is because it surely works. It's crucial to understand what causes these dark spots that aren't caused by cavitiesHere are some of the main reasons your baby might have teeth stains: Poor oral hygiene (like improper brushing) can cause a buildup of plaque on your baby’s teeth, which can result in stains on their teeth. Perhaps the most common cause for a black spot on your molar teeth is tooth decay, or a cavity. Contents Overview Possible Causes Care and Treatment When to Call the Doctor. However, there isn’t just one complete answer to why these spots occur. skin rash. That's staining you have to go for scaling and polishing but you say you're teeth are sensitive all the time so you may experience higher sensitivity than usual. A cavity may appear as a brown stain between teeth, a tiny hole in the tooth, or white spots between teeth. Food or drinks. Holes in Teeth That Aren’t Cavities: Unraveling the Mystery Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cost: Unraveling the Financial Aspects of a Life-Changing Procedure Unlock Your Potential: Diet Plans for Men That Revolutionize Wellness! Tailored Diet Plans for Women for Vibrant Living and Lasting Weight Loss Healthy Diet Plans: A Comprehensive Guide. What are black spots on teeth that aren’t cavities? These black lines on teeth are actually just a form of tartar, also called dental calculus. (Last Updated On: May 16, 2021)Dark black spots on teeth that aren’t cavities?. For instance, white marks under nails usually indicate calcium and zinc deficiency. Gingivitis is reversible, but don't ignore it! It can also increase the time that kids have to spend in braces. poor oral hygiene. Black dots on teeth can be a sign of cavities. tartar buildup. The sooner you treat a cavity, the better your chance for a predictable outcome and optimal oral health. Mix one teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide with one teaspoon of baking soda and gently brush your teeth few times a week. The main symptom of black gums is gum color that appears black or dark brown. spots. an unpleasant taste in your mouth. What are black spots on teeth that aren’t cavities? Dark spots on our teeth need not always be cavities. Demineralization. Diets that are rich in iron and pigments, such as those found in tea, coffee, and chocolate, can increase the likelihood of these black stains appearing on the teeth. What are black spots on teeth that aren’t cavities?. Dark or black spots on teeth may really be an indication of something more severe, like teeth cavities, even if other forms of discoloration may not be dangerous, just causing an unwanted cosmetic. Left alone, untreated cavities don’t “heal” themselves. 3 As summarised in Box 2, score 1 corresponds to the presence of pigmented dots or thin lines with incomplete. Other causes of black teeth include trauma, smoking, poor oral hygiene, and certain medications. In simple words, a black spot because bacteria have been encouraged to grow on the tooth surface, leading the tooth to be damaged. Poor diet, high in fermentable carbohydrates—which can be very poor quality dog food, or excessive feeding of high-carb table scraps like bread. Your child will lose his milk teeth between 6 to 12 years. Increase in tooth pain. Calcified plaque is a hard substance that makes the teeth look brown or yellow and then goes dark. Download FREE Practo app. Not all black spots need a filling, but if your dentist has advised so you should trust his judgement. That is why today, we want to clarify that i. Black spots on your teeth can be bothersome, but it’s not something you can’t deal with. Without treatment, these holes can grow larger over time and may even destroy the whole tooth. Black Spots on Teeth That Aren’t Cavities: Unveiling the Mystery – Mt. Silver. The first step in removing black spots on your teeth is to identify the source. dry mouth. A cavity forms when the build-up of plaque, which contains acids, is allowed to erode the surface enamel of a tooth. An early hole appears, displaying a light brown color. The reason is because small cavities typically do not hurt. Understanding Dental Discolorations. Here's a look at each one. I just looked at my ClinCheck and sure enough that edge of the tooth used to be rotated back. Dark brown or black stains often. (Make sure to dilute the hydrogen peroxide with water before using it) If with these remedies the stains do not go away, visit a dentist for professional scaling treatment. Intrinsic staining. Tooth decay occurs when plaque accumulates on the teeth and leads to the breakdown of the enamel. If you notice a dark or black area on your teeth, contact or visit your dentist to find out what you should do. Since there are active bacteria inside of your tooth and the enamel is disintegrating and being eaten away, it can’t grow itself back. A cavity forms when the build-up of plaque, which contains acids, is allowed to erode the surface enamel of a tooth. Over time, this white spot can turn brown or black. Cavities are one of the most common oral health problems. What are black spots on teeth that aren't cavities? These black lines on teeth are actually just a form of tartar, also called dental calculus. 3. Last time I have dental checkup was 3 years ago. Some potential causes include: Genetics. Developing a proper oral hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing daily, can effectively remove the plaque and prevent staining. A cavity may appear as a brown stain between teeth, a tiny hole in the tooth, or white spots between teeth. Foods/Drinks: Coffee, tea, colas, wines and certain foods (e. , Suite 101, Sterling Heights, MI 48314 Get Directions. Symptoms of tooth decay. In contrast, spots that are smooth to the touch indicate that the discoloration is not a cavity. Causes of Black Gums. If left untreated, periodontal disease can become more severe as the cat ages. If you notice a yellow buildup on your teeth, it's probably plaque or tartar. Black Spots on Teeth That Aren’t Cavities: Unveiling the Mystery; Pressure Point for Mouth Pain: Unlocking Natural Relief Techniques; How to Find a Good Dentist; Unleashing Smiles: Meet The Dentist Who Does Root Canals; Crest Whitening Emulsions Reviews; Recent Posts. Get it fixed and it won’t cause any real problems. This is because the cavity exposes the tooth’s internal dentin which is darker than the outer surface (white enamel) of the teeth¹. Required fields are marked * Comment * Name * Email *. If metal is used, it. Eat plenty of raw fruit and vegetables, avoid sugary foods, and when you do indulge, take extra measures to reduce your risk. Similarly, white spots on your teeth signify a lack of enamel production. Dental trauma. If cavities aren't treated, they get larger and affect deeper layers of your teeth. The tooth will start to break or fall off. Causes of black dots on teeth. The plaque bacteria generate acidic by-products that eat away at the tooth enamel, slowly creating holes in the teeth called cavities. Tooth decay is a common oral health problem that results in black spots on teeth. Side Effects of Smoking Tobacco is extremely harmful to your health, and too much smoking can damage your oral health, causing severe tooth discoloration along with tooth loss. When they discussed black decayed/carious ( picado ), with caries and podrido (rotten) teeth, they were generally talking about black discoloration of the whole tooth or. In most cases,. Other supplements may also discolor teeth. When plaque stays on the teeth, it hardens and becomes tartar. Gingival tissue is still delicate and in the process of mending. poor oral hygiene. From there, you may start to see a. Black spots on teeth can be treated quite simply, these can often be caused by a small pit or chip in the tooth which either picks up staining or has a small amount of decay. This article will delve into the potential causes behind black spots on teeth that aren’t related to cavities. However, not all patients need a dental filling when a cavity begins to form. Food Stains Tartar, or calculus, is a hardened form of dental plaque. So, if this tooth is going to stay that long, you should not let dental decay or cavity untreated for that long. While a dark spot on a tooth often indicates tooth decay or an early cavity, it’s essential to under. Here is how they are formed and the common causes –. of coconut oil out of your jar and pop it in your mouth. People's misconceptions and fears that these teeth could grow back prompt this inquiry, though. Although external bleaching agents can be effective in some instances, their efficacy depends on the underlying cause of the white patches. Tweet this. More Information. Black or dark spots on teeth are not uncommon. an infection, or abscess. Visible holes, pits, or black/brown spots on your teeth;. Black Spots on Teeth: Causes and Treatment Black Spots on Teeth Are Usually Cavities (Not Stains). By Perrine Juillion / April 17, 2020. Discoloration indicating a cavity can appear white, yellow, brown, or black. (See also Overview of Tooth Disorders . Cavities are holes in the tooth that lead to infection and pain if not treated by a dentist. These can lead to black tartar buildup, which causes brown spots on your teeth’ surface. There are various common causes of tooth decay- from dietary (bad diet) to lifestyle (smoking, drinking etc. Alejandra Bujeiro, 32, was delighted that her 3-year-old daughter, Natalia, didn’t have to have two cavities filled in the back of her mouth. WSLs can develop quite rapidly in people having orthodontic treatment, and are often seen in areas near brackets and bands. Is Black Stain a Cavity? No, but it could be. The treatment for black spots on teeth will, again, depend on the cause of the problem. Fortunately, these perplexing black spots aren't always indicative of tooth damage. Using Orange Peel Rubbing the teeth with the inner part of an orange peel helps in. Severe staining due to improper diet. Upadya covers the gums and teeth. Clearly, these abrupt changes to your child's teeth must be investigated by a dentist. We often talk about problems with yellow teeth or dark stains but did you know that you can also get white stains on teeth, in particular the front teeth? en. A cavity is often also accompanied by other symptoms, such as toothaches, tooth sensitivities, and holes in the tooth, while a tooth stain is just discoloration of the teeth. Cavities are holes, or areas of tooth decay, that form in your teeth surfaces. Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, celery, and cucumbers, which help to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth. Treatments include dental fillings, root canal therapy and tooth extraction. If those spots aren’t painful, the causes could be smoking or fluorosis. taking specific medications, such as liquid iron supplements. Step 2: Plaque and tartar are scraped from the surface of your teeth in a process called scaling. The black spot can be dashed or solid; it can be a thick line or maybe. Factors like periodontal disease, ill-fitting dentures and tobacco use, among others, can increase your chances of gum recession, he says. Directions Call Us Book Appt. If you notice a hole in your tooth, it’s a cavity. No. Some symptoms of an abscess include: tooth pain that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or face. Candy is nearly cut out. Poor overall health. Most of the studies concerning this issue were conducted in pediatric population. Another frequent cause that causes black spots on teeth is the prolonged use of mouthwashes that have chlorhexidine. Brown, black or white staining on any surface of a tooth Pain when you bite down When to see a dentist You may not be aware that a cavity is forming. Its characteristics are a non cavitated, 10 incomplete line of dark dots formed at the cervical third of the tooth. About the black spots on your teeth. A white spot on a tooth is usually the first sign of a developing cavity. Next, he applies the Icon-Etch to the tooth. However, extraction may be necessary in cases ofTeeth holes can be caused by a variety of factors, including teeth grinding (bruxism) and caries. Simply consult your dentist to determine the cause and identify the best solutions. Tooth Decay. This happens when the minerals in. Plaque is a covering of germs that is highly harmful to the teeth. Or, they may be side effects of medication. Possible causes for black spots on your teeth that are not cavities include: Surface Staining: If the black spot is on the surface of your tooth, it could simply be a stain that has built up over time due to certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. A black dot on your tooth may be a sign of an underlying dental issue. Tooth Discoloration. Tooth discoloration is when the color of your teeth changes. Decay occurs from acids produced by oral bacteria reacting with sugars in the diet. Naturally occurring dark spots caused by staining of the teeth are a common condition that very often goes undetected. A cavity is an area of tooth decay caused by bacteria. When allowed to persist, the bacteria, sugar and acid will stick to the teeth and impact. Results from in-office procedures usually last around three years. Black staining is a specific type of extrinsic discolouration affecting the buccal and palatal/lingual 5 surfaces of the teeth. Cavities are one of the most common dental issues that can affect people of all ages. Diagnosis. The thickness and appearance of the spot vary in each case. There is almost always an underlying cause why enamel is prone to erosion and tooth decay. Tooth decay, on the other hand, is the most common cause of holes in teeth. Tooth decay can happen when an acid is produced from a plaque that builds up on the teeth. And if there is black between teeth and gums,. Just keep that area clean with your Sonicare, and don't. 5 min. A healthy diet is also essential for preventing black teeth. At first, these stains look like cavities, but they aren’t. Tooth Fairy Ideas. The spots between your teeth are much more of your tooth surface than you might realize; according to experts, about 40 percent of your tooth surface isn't cleaned when you brush because the brush can't reach it like floss can. The first sign that can tell if you have a cavity is a dark spot on or between the teeth. At this point, your tooth has decayed by a great amount so you will need to have it treated by a dentist. Tooth decay (also called cavities or caries) is caused by bacteria in the plaque on your teeth, sweet foods and drinks, and a lack of oral hygiene. A more common symptom of cavities forming on your teeth is pain or sensitivity. A black dot on a tooth can be an indication of a cavity, but it is not always the case. Cavities can be painful and sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli. One of the most common causes of black spots on teeth is tooth decay. Discoloration or black teeth stains are primarily because of the pigments from the food we eat. Given the speed with which they formed, it's unlikely that the black spots are actually cavities. Cavities on the front teeth are the easiest to see and will look like a brown or black spot. I've been this way for about 3-4 months. One common solution is teeth whitening with a professional whitening kit like Smile White. If you suspect heartburn and acid reflux could be harming your teeth, or you. Just. The most common cause is tooth decay. Blood vessels can even dysfunction or rupture, leading to discoloration. . Given the speed with which they formed, it's unlikely that the black spots are actually cavities. Any white spot on your teeth generally means one thing: the enamel there has been weakened or removed and the tooth is at risk for a cavity and infection. Once your teeth start to show signs of stains accompanied by sensitivity, it usually indicates. Teeth formed abnormally close together. The process is aided by poor dietary habits: snacking frequently, and drinking. Black triangles between your teeth are also known as “open gingival embrasures. To avoid this, you should include calcium-rich food like almonds, dairy products, and leafy greens in your diet. Cavities in cats are not the same as cavities in humans. Even though enamel is very durable, it’s not invincible. Alternatively, the enamel could be damaged and bacteria entered the tooth causing black tooth decay and. However. 4 weeks ago How to Find a Good Dentist. 1. In fact, the best scenario that occurs when a cavity has been left to worsen is a very large filling. It is a perfect way on how to tell if you have a cavity. As time passes, tooth decay progresses through the five stages. Some foods and drinks (particularly coffee, soda,. If the black spot is accompanied by the symptoms mentioned below, tooth decay could be the underlying issue. an injury to the affected tooth. Look for a broken, cracked, or lost filling. They can be dark spots on the surface of the tooth or big, dark holes. 1. If you notice black at the base of the tooth, it could be a sign of early tooth decay. No painful symptoms: If there is no discomfort, then the black spots probably aren’t caries. For an added boost to healthier, whiter teeth, consider rinsing your mouth with lemon water, an. Prior dental work: Fillings, crowns, and bridges wear down over time. discoloration due to antibiotic use as a child, most. Eventually, this discoloration on the enamel will give way to a hole. I’d been stressing thinking that it was a cavity. Extrinsic Causes. The acids, bacteria, saliva, and other food debris in your mouth combine to form a sticky substance called plaque, which begins damaging teeth over time. Introduction. See moreSome of the most common causes of a black or brown spot on your tooth may be due to the following: tooth decay or a cavity an. Pros. A more common symptom of cavities forming on your teeth is pain or sensitivity. I didn't want to take up his time and annoy him with questions, so I. Tobacco — Smoking or chewing tobacco. Also an open-mouth breather, so my teeth get dry in the night. They can lead to a severe toothache, infection and tooth. At this point, you might notice a yellow or grey color to your cavities. Tooth pain can come on spontaneously or when you expose teeth to sugars or acids. Left to its own devices, plaque eats away at your enamel and opens the door for cavities to form. Using more abrasive toothpastes can be beneficial in managing them. Brown spots or discoloration can have many causes. Plaque is a covering of germs that is highly harmful to the teeth. Dark gums can also be associated with some endocrine diseases. If you notice a spot on your teeth but don’t yet feel pain, make an appointment with the dentist immediately don’t wait until pain starts. Low salivary pH. (Last Updated On: May 16, 2021)Dark black spots on teeth that aren’t cavities?. Teeth are made of calcium, and if they’re deprived of it, the enamel can break down. You would feel excruciating pain that seems to come from the inside of your tooth. Consuming too much tea or coffee can cause teeth staining. Tartar buildup. Sufferers may experience bleeding, tenderness, redness, or swelling. Therefore, their appearance can be deceiving. Clean and massage your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth each day before putting in your dentures. Email. Do Stains on Teeth Mean Cavities? If you notice stains on your teeth, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have cavities. (1) Preventing What Causes Cavities. Several negativeThis condition can cause your tonsils to become swollen, and can lead to obstruction of the tonsillar crypts. Cavities often appear as small holes,. If the plaque buildup continues to worsen, the bleeding usually gets worse. Dental Exam and Cleaning to Remove Tartar. Some people might see black spots on teeth that aren’t cavities. This usually causes brown spots on the teeth’ surface. (1) Preventing What Causes Cavities. The color of the brown spot helps you determine if it is a cavity or not. They can be signs of tooth decay, staining of the teeth or even an old filling that you forgot about, Quartey-Sagaille said. First, when you eat or drink, food particles and carbohydrates linger on your teeth and are digested by the bacteria in your mouth and in accumulated plaque. I'm not a dentist, but from my personal experience, they could be cavities but they could also be dental caries (which, I think, are pre-cavity issues). If it doesn’t get any smoother, let you dentist know. Gingivitis occurs when the tissues around the teeth become inflamed and it's the initial form of gum disease.