Is it a Cavity or Tooth Sensitivity?
Although a cavity can lead to tooth pain, cavities and tooth sensitivity are different. Remember to see your dentist for a diagnosis.
What’s That Pain?
Cavity vs Tooth Sensitivity
What It Feels Like
Cavity Pain
Can be dull, sharp or short pain, can keep you awake at night, and may be triggered by eating or biting down.
Tooth Sensitivity Pain
A short, sharp shock of pain often caused by cold or hot food and drink.
How It Happens
Tooth Decay Causes (cavities)
Bacteria in the mouth feed on the sugar we consume in food and drink and produce acids. When left undisturbed on teeth, these acids break down tooth enamel leading to tooth decay or cavities.
Tooth Sensitivity Causes
When enamel wears down or your gums recede, it exposes the underlying dentin which contains small holes leading to the nerves. Certain triggers, especially cold such as ice water, can set off the nerves inside your teeth causing you pain.
How to Treat It
