Does a Toothache Mean You Have a Cavity?

There could be several possible reasons why your tooth hurts. You may have something stuck between it and another tooth, or you may have accidentally hurt it due to accidental trauma. In most cases, however, a sensitive or aching tooth means that your tooth enamel is growing weak, which is a precursor to cavity development. If so, then the pain in your tooth will only grow worse as the cavity develops further, which is why diagnosing and treating your toothache should be a top priority.

What Does a Cavity Mean?

A cavity is the official name for a hole in your tooth that forms from the progression of tooth decay. The condition results from harmful oral bacteria eroding your tooth enamel and sneaking past it to infect your tooth structure. As soon as oral bacteria begin significantly affecting your tooth enamel, your tooth will grow more sensitive to irritants like food particles and acidic substances. The sensitivity will grow more persistent as the decay progresses and the cavity grows larger.

What You Should Do if Your Tooth Aches

If you notice that your tooth is becoming sensitive, then you should schedule a visit with your dentist as soon as possible. If you do have a cavity, then your dentist will have a better chance at stopping it before your tooth suffers significant damage. If your toothache is caused by something else, such as a crack or fracture, then your dentist can recommend an appropriate restoration such as a dental crown, to restore it and alleviate the pain in your tooth.

Find Out if You Need Cavity Treatment for Your Toothache

If your tooth hurts, then a cavity may be one of several possible reasons why. To find out if you need cavity treatment, schedule an appointment, call Gentle Smiles in Dallas, TX, today at 972-329-7645 (972-329-SMILE).