Tooth decay, commonly known as cavities, is one of the most widespread dental problems. While it’s well-known that cavities can cause pain, many people are unsure exactly where they hurt or why they hurt in the first place. This article will explore where cavities hurt, how they cause pain, and what you can do about them.
What Are Cavities?
Cavities, also known as dental caries, occur when the enamel on your teeth breaks down. Enamel is the outermost layer of your teeth, and it acts as a protective shield. When bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugars from the food you eat, they produce acids. These acids slowly dissolve the enamel, creating small holes. These holes are what we call cavities.
At first, cavities may not hurt at all. They can take months or even years to form, and the pain may not appear until the decay has reached deeper layers of the tooth.
How Do Cavities Cause Pain?
The pain associated with cavities is often caused when the decay reaches the inner layers of the tooth, called the dentin or the pulp. The pulp is where the nerves of the tooth are located. When a cavity grows deep enough to affect these nerves, you can experience discomfort.
The pain can vary. It may be a dull ache, a sharp pain, or a feeling of pressure. The type and intensity of pain depend on the location and size of the cavity.
Where Do Cavities Hurt?
Cavities can hurt in different parts of the tooth, and the location of the pain often indicates how advanced the decay is. Let’s look at where cavities hurt and what it means for your oral health.
Pain in the Tooth Surface
In the early stages of tooth decay, you may not feel pain at all. However, if you notice sensitivity to certain things like hot or cold foods, sweet treats, or acidic drinks, it could be a sign that a cavity is developing. Sensitivity usually occurs when the enamel begins to wear down but has not yet exposed the dentin.
Pain Around the Gum Line
If a cavity develops near the gum line, you might feel discomfort when brushing or flossing. The gums might become swollen or irritated, and you may experience bleeding when you clean the area. This is often because the cavity is affecting the part of the tooth that is closest to the soft tissue of your gums. Cavities near the gum line may also lead to gum disease if left untreated.
Sharp Pain in the Tooth
When a cavity has progressed deeper into the tooth and reached the dentin, the pain tends to be more noticeable. This pain is often sharp and sudden. It can happen when you bite down, chew, or even touch the tooth with your tongue. This sharp pain occurs because the bacteria are affecting the nerves within the tooth, which are sensitive to pressure and temperature.
Throbbing Pain in the Root Area
If a cavity reaches the pulp of the tooth, it can cause throbbing pain. The pulp contains blood vessels and nerves, so if bacteria invade this area, you may experience intense pain. The pain may be constant and can worsen when you lie down or try to chew. At this stage, the cavity has likely caused an infection, and you may need more extensive treatment, such as a root canal.
Pain When Eating or Drinking
Cavities that are not treated can cause discomfort when eating or drinking. You may feel pain when eating sweet, hot, cold, or sour foods. This happens because the decayed area is exposed to substances that trigger nerve responses. Even brushing or flossing your teeth may become painful, especially if the cavity has exposed more sensitive areas of the tooth.
How Can You Prevent Tooth Pain From Cavities?
Cavities are preventable with good oral hygiene. By brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, you can remove the plaque and bacteria that lead to tooth decay. Here are some steps you can take to prevent cavities from forming and causing pain:
Regular Brushing
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride helps to remineralize the enamel and protect it from decay. Make sure to brush for at least two minutes, and be gentle to avoid damaging your gums.
Flossing Daily
Flossing is essential for removing plaque and food particles between your teeth that your toothbrush may miss. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria that can lead to cavities.
Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks
Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, which produces acid that breaks down enamel. By limiting sugary foods and drinks, you reduce the risk of cavities forming.
Regular Dental Checkups
Visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings is vital for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can detect cavities early, sometimes before they cause any pain, and recommend treatments to prevent further decay.
Use Mouthwash
Antiseptic mouthwash can help kill bacteria in your mouth and reduce plaque buildup. Using mouthwash in addition to brushing and flossing can further protect your teeth from cavities.
What Happens if Cavities Are Left Untreated?
If cavities are left untreated, the decay will continue to spread. Initially, cavities may cause mild sensitivity or pain, but over time, the pain will become more severe. If the cavity reaches the pulp, it can lead to an infection, which can spread to other parts of your mouth. Untreated cavities can also lead to tooth loss if the damage is severe enough.
In addition to tooth pain, untreated cavities can cause bad breath, gum disease, and even abscesses. An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by infection, which can cause swelling, fever, and severe pain. In extreme cases, untreated cavities can lead to a serious infection that requires emergency dental treatment.
Treatments for Cavities
If you experience tooth pain or think you may have a cavity, it’s essential to see a dentist as soon as possible. The earlier a cavity is detected, the easier it is to treat. Here are some common treatments for cavities:
Fillings
If the cavity is small to moderate, the dentist may remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill the hole with a material like composite resin, silver amalgam, or gold. This restores the tooth’s function and prevents further decay.
Root Canals
If the cavity has reached the pulp and caused an infection, a root canal may be necessary. During this procedure, the dentist removes the infected tissue from inside the tooth, cleans the area, and fills it to prevent further damage. Root canals are usually effective at eliminating pain and saving the tooth.
Crowns
If a cavity is too large to be filled, the dentist may recommend a crown. A crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth to restore its shape and function. Crowns can also be used to strengthen teeth that have been weakened by extensive decay.
Tooth Extraction
In some cases, when the tooth is too damaged to be repaired, the dentist may recommend extracting the tooth. After extraction, options like dental implants or bridges can replace the missing tooth.
Conclusion
Cavities can hurt in different ways, depending on where they are and how advanced the decay is. Early cavities may cause only mild sensitivity, but as they progress, the pain can become sharp, throbbing, and constant. The good news is that cavities are preventable and treatable. Regular oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental checkups can help protect your teeth from decay and pain. If you do experience tooth pain, don’t ignore it—seeing a dentist early can prevent further damage and save your tooth.
Related topics:
