A cavity is a damaged area on a tooth that develops into a small hole due to tooth decay. These holes form when acids in the mouth wear down the tooth’s hard outer layer, known as enamel. While cavities are common, they do not always cause immediate pain, especially in their early stages. Discomfort often arises as the decay progresses deeper into the tooth’s structure.
How Cavities Cause Pain
Cavities cause pain through progressive damage to tooth layers. Tooth decay begins with demineralization, where acids from bacteria in plaque dissolve minerals from the enamel, the tooth’s outermost layer. At this initial stage, there is no pain because enamel does not contain nerves.
As the decay continues, it penetrates through the enamel and reaches the dentin, the softer layer beneath. Dentin contains tubules that connect to the tooth’s inner pulp, which houses nerves and blood vessels. When decay reaches the dentin, these tubules become exposed, leading to sensitivity and sometimes pain, particularly in response to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.
If left unaddressed, the decay advances further into the pulp, causing inflammation, known as pulpitis. The confined space within the tooth means swelling in the pulp puts pressure on the nerves, resulting in more intense and persistent pain. At this stage, the pain may be sharp, throbbing, or even spontaneous.
Untreated pulp infection can spread, leading to an abscess, a pocket of pus at the root tip. This advanced stage of decay causes severe, throbbing pain that may radiate to the jaw or face. Swelling, fever, and swollen lymph nodes can also accompany an abscess.
Identifying Cavity Pain and Other Signs
Pain is a common indicator of a cavity, manifesting in various ways depending on the decay’s extent. A frequent symptom is tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, often presenting as a stinging or burning sensation.
Pain when biting down or chewing is another common sign, suggesting the cavity may have progressed to a deeper layer of the tooth or caused a crack. Some individuals experience a dull, persistent ache that can be localized to one tooth or feel more widespread. In more advanced cases, pain might be sharp, throbbing, or even occur without any apparent trigger.
Beyond pain, other signs of cavities exist. Visible holes or pits in the tooth surface can indicate decay. Discoloration (brown, black, or white staining) may also signal a cavity. Sometimes, food might consistently get caught in a specific area.
Next Steps for Suspected Cavities
If you suspect a cavity, consult a dentist for diagnosis and treatment. Delaying professional evaluation can lead to further decay, increased pain, and more complex dental issues. Dentists use various methods to check for cavities, including visual examination, probing teeth for soft spots, and reviewing dental X-rays, revealing decay not visible to the eye.
A dentist will assess your oral health and recommend appropriate treatment. While waiting for your appointment, some measures can provide temporary pain relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort and reduce inflammation.
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help clean the area and alleviate pain. Applying a cold compress to the affected cheek area may reduce swelling and numb the pain. Avoid self-diagnosing or relying solely on home remedies, as these do not address the underlying cause of the cavity.