When a cavity eats away at the enamel of a tooth, a person might find that it is more sensitive, especially when brushing the teeth or drinking hot or cold beverages.
Sometimes, cavities can grow so large that bacteria can get into the gums, or even the bone underneath the teeth. This can cause intense, unrelenting pain, as well as serious infections.
When a cavity grows very large or causes a tooth abscess , some symptoms may include:. Sometimes, an abscessed tooth stops hurting for a period of time when the infection kills the nerve or the pulp of the tooth. However, a person may still have other symptoms, such as swelling, and the pain may return if the infection reaches the gums or bone. Bacteria that eat sugar live on the teeth. A person is likely to have more bacteria in their mouth when they eat a very sugary diet, do not brush their teeth, or do not seek regular dental care.
Over time, these bacteria can eat into the enamel of the teeth, eventually causing decay deep in the tooth. These bacteria form biofilms that cause plaque, making them more difficult to remove. Over time, the bacteria damage the sensitive pulp and nerve of the tooth, causing cavity pain.
Research also suggests that the bacteria that cause cavities are contagious. You feel sensitivity or pain when you eat or drink something acidic, cold, hot, sticky, or sweet. You can actually see a hole or pit on your tooth. Your teeth are stained brown, black, or white. You feel a sharp jolt of pain when you bite down.
Korin is a former New Yorker who now lives at the beach. She received a double B. Korin has been published in Read more. Topics oral health. Sign up for our SELF Daily Wellness newsletter All the best health and wellness advice, tips, tricks, and intel, delivered to your inbox every day. As your tooth decays bacteria spreads and penetrates the tooth.
This leads to bad breath, also called halitosis. This same bacteria that makes a cavity causes bad breath. You might notice it when you brush your teeth or your tongue. If you have halitosis, visit a dental professional. You might have a bad cavity. The sooner you address it, the sooner you can fix it and the less money your dental treatment will cost you. An abscess can cause extreme pain, a fever and even make your glands swell. Tend to pus immediately. It should not be ignored or overlooked.
Your dentist can help stop the pus and to prevent the abscess from getting worse by prescribing an antibiotic. An antibiotic can kill the bacteria that has spread through your tooth.
It can also prevent it from spreading through other nearby areas of your mouth. If you have a chip in your tooth or your tooth has a larger break, you might have a cavity.
This can happen when you might down on something hard or eat something chewy like a piece of candy. If your tooth is chipped or broken, your cavity needs to be treated before it breaks the rest of the tooth.
Your dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gumline, creating flaps to expose both the tooth and the underlying bone area. Any bone that blocks access to the tooth will be removed before the dentist or oral surgeon divides the tooth into sections, making it easier to remove.
The dentist removes the tooth and clears away any remaining debris from around the gumline or the bone. Then, the wound is stitched up. The dentist puts gauze over the extraction site to control any extra bleeding and help with clotting.
If you think you have a cavity, you should make an appointment with your dentist immediately. Although cavities can be reversed in the earliest stages, only a dentist can treat them by the time you feel discomfort or pain.
During your appointment, an x-ray will be taken to determine the extent of the decay. Depending on the severity of the cavity, you might need a filling. Very severe decay may require replacing the tooth with a crown, performing a root canal or extraction. If you cannot see your dentist right away, try some of these home remedies and over-the-counter OTC medications to find temporary cavity pain relief while you wait.
Even if you're not sure if you have a cavity, regular professional cleanings and dental visits are important. A dental hygienist can apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen the teeth and reverse the early stages of decay. They can also give you tips on the best ways to brush your teeth and advise which foods increase your risk for cavities. When it comes to cavities, taking preventative steps is a lot easier than treating the problem down the road. This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics.
It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Shop Now.
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