Cavities are one of the most common dental ailments. Many adults even have chronic tooth decay. Although the ethics of water fluoridation are often debated, the practice has been shown to reduce the incidence of cavities in communities where it is implemented.
However, even with fluoridation, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, is still crucial to prevent tooth decay.
When a cavity develops in the tooth, it rots the soft inner surface of the tooth. There are specific sensations that correlate to the existence of a cavity.
Keep reading to learn more about what a cavity feels like.
1. Increased Sensitivity
A cavity can cause sensitivity in teeth that was not present before. It may range from mild discomfort to a sharp, stinging pain that might last for up to 15 to 20 seconds.
The symptoms can become worse over time as the cavity causes more damage to the tooth. You may experience a sensitivity to heat and cold.
Things like drinking cold water, hot coffee, or eating hot soup may cause a sharp, intense pain that radiates throughout the tooth when the temperature of the food or liquid penetrates the cavity.
In addition, other sensations, such as touch sweet and sour flavors, may lead to a heightened response in the cavity area.
2. Pain While Eating
Pain while eating is often a common symptom of a cavity, and it usually begins as dull pain affected by sweet, sour, or sticky food. It may feel like an ache or throbbing sensation in the tooth and can vary depending on the progression of the cavity.
It’s important to recognize these sensations early and get the cavity taken care of. If it continues to remain untreated, the tooth may require a root canal if the cavity has caused damage to the root of the tooth. Therefore, it’s important to pay attention to any sudden sensations of pain while eating or drinking.
3. Foul Taste in the Mouth
When suffering from a cavity, a foul taste in the mouth is a common sensation. The bacteria responsible for tooth decay produces a variety of acids that lead to the breakdown of your teeth, as well as a nasty taste.
As your cavity deepens and more of the tooth is exposed, the sensation will worsen, and you may notice a bitter taste lingering in the back of your throat.
4. Tooth Discoloration
Tooth discoloration is one of the most obvious signs of a cavity. It is usually a light brown, yellow, or black stain that can appear on the surface of a tooth.
This discoloration is typically caused by the presence of bacterial acids eating away at the tooth’s enamel. Increase in dental plaque that causes foul breath. Take good care of teeth by brushing and flossing them daily.
Regular brushing and flossing will prevent the development of cavities, so it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits daily.
5. Visible Hole
A visible hole in tooth is an indicative sign of a cavity. Cavities impact the teeth significantly, eroding enamel due to frequent contact with acidic foods and drinks.
All small cavities lead to the formation of a visible hole. Along with visible holes in the teeth, sensitivity can range from mild discomfort to intense pain.
Additionally, impacted teeth may cause constant throbbing pain, along with sensitivity in the surrounding gums. Early detection and treatment are key in preventing further damage to cavities, leading to a healthy smile.
6. Loose Teeth
When it comes to loose teeth, knowing the feelings to watch for is essential. Additionally, the gum or jawbone may be tender to the touch or consistently aching.
In extreme situations, if the tooth is very loose, it may be possible to slightly wiggle it with finger pressure.
Treatment for Cavity
Treatment of the cavity begins with identifying the issue and determining its severity. If the cavity is small, there are procedures that may be sufficient. If the cavity is large a more invasive treatment may be required.
Cavities can be painful, but treatment can restore your oral health and keep your teeth intact.
Dental Fillings
The treatment of a cavity usually involves a dental filling. Fillings will restore the look and functionality of the tooth. The dentist will first remove the decay using a drill, then the area will be thoroughly cleaned.
Once the tooth is clean, the dentist will put in the filling. It can either be made of gold, ceramic, composite resin, or amalgam. Depending on the material used, the filling process can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.
Ultra-sparency and fillings can also help prevent further damage to the tooth, keeping it safe from more decay.
Tooth Extraction
If a cavity is left untreated, it can worsen over time and eventually lead to tooth extraction. Cavities are caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria that penetrate teeth and compromise their structural integrity.
The first step of treatment is typically dental cleaning, in which tartar and plaque are carefully scraped off of the teeth. If the damage is too extensive, a tooth extraction may be necessary.
During extraction, the dentist will use forceps to grip the tooth and a special elevator to loosen it in the socket before pulling it out.
Root Canal
For cavities that affect the deeper layers of a tooth, a root canal may be the best option. This procedure involves creating an opening in the tooth to remove any damaged or infected tissues and then thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the canals and root tips.
Once the canals are filled with a sealing material, the opening is sealed with a filling or crown. The result of a root canal is a tooth that looks, feels, and functions like a normal tooth.
Although the procedure can take several appointments, it is important to complete them in order to ensure lasting effects and a healthy smile.
In any case, the dentist in Georgetown, KY will be able to guide you through the treatment process and help you make the right choices for your oral health.
All About Knowing What Does a Cavity Feel Like
Knowing what does a cavity feel like and how it can be treated can help alleviate oral pain and give people the satisfaction of managing and preserving their teeth.
If you think you may have a cavity, be sure to contact your dentist to receive professional consultation and advice.
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