If you have ever wondered what does a cavity feel like, you are not alone. Many people are curious about the symptoms of tooth decay. Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, affecting millions globally. But how do you know if you have a cavity? And what can you do to prevent and treat them?

The following post will answer these questions. By the end of this blog, you will better understand what a cavity feels like and how to take care of your oral health.

What is a Cavity?

A hole in the tough outer covering of your tooth (enamel) is called a cavity. The toughest material in your body can be harmed by plaque accumulating over time on your teeth. When enamel is eroded, it exposes the softer inner layer of your tooth called dentin, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Dentin is more sensitive and prone to decay than enamel and can cause pain and sensitivity when exposed.

How do Cavities Form?

Cavities form when plaque, a gummed film of bacteria and food particles, accumulates on your teeth. Plaque produces acids that attack your enamel and create tiny holes. These holes can grow larger and deeper over time, reaching the dentin and even the pulp.

The pulp is the innermost part of your tooth, containing nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp is infected, it can cause severe pain that may require root canal treatment.

How to Tell if You Have a Cavity–Before it Gets Worse?

The best way to tell if you have a cavity is to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can detect cavities using visual examination, x-rays, or special tools that measure the hardness of your enamel. However, if you cannot see your dentist right away, some signs may indicate that you have a cavity.

These include:

Tooth Pain

Tooth pain is one of the most common signs of a cavity. The pain can range from normal to severe, depending on the size and location of the cavity. It may be constant or intermittent and worsen when you bite, chew, or apply pressure to the affected tooth.

Tooth Sensitivity

Another frequent indication of a cavity is sensitive teeth. It happens when your pulp or dentin is exposed to stimuli from the outside world, such as temperature fluctuations. When you consume something cold or sour, your tooth may experience a strong or dull aching, tingling, or zinging feeling.

Holes in Your Teeth

Holes in your teeth are visible signs of cavities. You may see or feel them with your tongue. The holes may vary in size and shape, depending on how much enamel has been lost. They may also collect food debris and plaque, making them look darker.

Dark Spots on Your Tooth

Dark spots on your tooth are another visible sign of cavities. They may appear as brown, black, or grey stains on the surface of your tooth. Dark spots may also indicate decay underneath the enamel that has not yet caused a hole.

Halitosis (Bad Breath)

Numerous things, including poor dental hygiene, dry mouth, smoking, or medical problems, might contribute to halitosis (bad breath). However, it can also be a sign of cavities, especially if they are large or deep.

Causes of Cavities

Several dental health-related issues bring on cavities. These consist of:

Poor Oral Hygiene

Plaque can build up on your teeth and cause cavities if you don’t use fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and rinse with mouthwash.

Diet

Consuming sugary or acidic foods and drinks can feed the bacteria in your mouth and increase the production of acids that erode your enamel. Snacking frequently or sugary drinks can expose your teeth to more acids and plaque.

Dry Mouth

A dry mouth means you have less saliva to wash away plaque and food particles and neutralise acids in your mouth. It can be caused by dehydration, medications, smoking, or medical conditions such as diabetes or Sjogren’s syndrome.

Genetics

Some people may be more prone to cavities than others because of their genetic makeup. For example, some people may have softer or thinner enamel, or lower saliva production, making them more susceptible to decay.

Age

As you age, your enamel may wear down naturally, exposing your dentin and making your teeth more sensitive and vulnerable to cavities. You may also develop gum recession, which can expose the roots of your teeth.

Prevention Of Cavities

The good news is that cavities are preventable with proper oral care and lifestyle habits. Here are some tips on how to prevent cavities:

• Use fluoride toothpaste twice daily, brushing for at least two minutes each time.
• Use dental floss regularly to remove food, and plaque stuck between your teeth and below your gum line.
• Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial or fluoride mouthwash after brushing and flossing.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and wash away plaque and food particles.
• Consume a balanced diet high in calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and other nutrients that are good for oral health but low in sugar.
• Limit sugary or acidic foods and drinks that can harm your enamel and cause cavities.
• Avoid snacking or sipping on sugary drinks between meals.
• Visit your dentist at least twice a year for check-ups and cleanings.
• Follow your dentist’s recommendations for any dental work you may need to treat or prevent existing cavities.

How to Treat Cavity Pain?

If you have cavity pain, you should see your dentist for proper treatment and avoid further complications. Depending on the severity of the cavity, your doctor may recommend one of the following treatments:

Dental Fillings

The most typical cavity treatment is dental fillings. They entail extracting the tooth’s decaying area and filling it with a material such as composite resin, amalgam, gold, or porcelain. Fillings help to restore the tooth’s form and function.

Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is the ultimate resort for treating cavities too large or deep to fill. It involves removing the entire tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Tooth extraction can prevent infection and pain from spreading to other teeth or parts of the body.

Do Cavities Always Hurt?

Not necessarily. Cavities can be painless in the early stages when they only affect the enamel. You may notice symptoms of decay once the cavity reaches the dentin or the pulp. However, some people may experience mild to moderate pain even when the cavity is small or shallow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does a cavity feel like when it first starts?

A cavity may not feel like anything when it starts, as it only affects the enamel. You may notice signs once the cavity reaches the dentin or the pulp. However, some people may experience mild pain or sensitivity even when the cavity is small or shallow.

How do you self-check for a cavity?

You can self-check for a cavity by looking at your teeth in the mirror and feeling them with your tongue. You may feel holes, dark spots, or cracks on your teeth. You may also notice sensitivity when you consume something cold, sweet, or sour.

However, these signs are unreliable, as cavities may be hidden between teeth. Therefore, the best way to check for a cavity is to visit your dentist.

Does a cavity go away on its own?

No, a cavity does not go away on its own. It can only worsen over time, as more enamel is lost and more dentin and pulp are exposed. If left untreated, a cavity can cause severe pain, infection, tooth loss, and even systemic health problems. Therefore, you should see your dentist when you notice any signs of a cavity.

What does a cavity feel like when you touch it?

A cavity may feel like a hole, a crack, or a rough spot when you touch it with your tongue or finger. It may also feel sensitive or painful when you apply pressure to it. However, some cavities may not feel like anything when you touch them.

At what stage does a cavity hurt?

A cavity may hurt at any stage of its development, depending on the size and location of the decay and the individual’s pain threshold. However, most cavities start to hurt when they reach the dentin or the pulp, as these layers contain nerves and blood vessels that can transmit pain signals to the brain.

Conclusion

Cavities are common dental problems that can affect anyone at any age. They can cause pain and sensitivity in your teeth and affect your oral health and quality of life. However, cavities are preventable and treatable with proper oral care and dental visits.