Holes in your teeth are generally known as cavities, caries, or tooth decay. According to the National Institutes of Health, cavities rank second in terms of the most common health disorders in America, right after the common cold. In many cases, cavities are painful, but it is possible to have a hole in teeth or dental abscess lower jaw without any pain. Even without constant pain, it may occasionally feel sore. The best solution for this issue or any other tooth-related issues is to visit a dentist immediately. The existing hole indicates that you have put off the dentist visit too long and need to take action immediately to minimize the negative effects.
I Have a Hole in My Tooth But No Pain-Why?
If you can describe your situation with the phrase “I have a hole in my tooth without pain,” then you will need to learn about cavities to understand why. Cavities are erosion along the tooth’s enamel or outer surface. These lead to a pit within the tooth where bacteria can reproduce. As the erosion gets deeper, the nerve within the tooth’s center may become involved, leading to swelling and pain.
This means that most cavities will not be painful unless they are deep enough where they reach the nerve root. That is why dentists suggest having a screening twice a year to search for and treat cavities, even if there is no pain.
In cases where you wonder “why do I have a hole in my tooth but no pain?” it just means the damage is not deep enough to reach to the nerves, when it does, the tooth would need to have a root canal to be save, or it could be extracted. Conversely, the tooth may be incredibly painful and it may require filling or a root canal.
When cavities remain untreated, they become larger, spreading to deeper layers within the teeth. This can lead to infection, severe toothache, or even tooth loss.
Tips:
To reduce pain and related issues, aim to eat foods that are healthy for your teeth. This means avoiding foods that will get stuck into your teeth’s pits and grooves, like cookies and brush right after. Instead opt for foods to increase saliva flow to wash away the food particles. Consider unsweetened tea and coffee and fresh fruits or vegetables.
I Have a Hole in My Tooth But No Pain-What Treatment May I Need?
1. Root Canals
If the decay reaches your tooth pulp (the inner material), a root canal may be necessary. This process involves removing the tooth pulp which is diseased, possibly adding medication to clear infections, and replacing the pulp using a filling.
2. Dental Filling
During a filling, your dentist may give you a local anesthesia and then they will use a laser or drill to remove the decay from your affected tooth. The drill, or handpiece, uses burs (metal cones) of varying shapes and sizes to get through enamel to remove the decay.
The dentist will begin with a high speed drill that removes decay as well as unsupported tooth enamel. They will most likely switch to a drill with a lower speed when they reach the second layer of your tooth (the dentin) since it is softer.
After the decay is gone, the dentist will prepare the space for a filling by shaping it. There are various shaping procedures, including inserting a liner or base to protect the area with nerves. These liners may be made from materials such as eugenol, zinc oxide, glass ionomer, or composite resin.
3. Tooth Extractions
In some cases a tooth will be decayed to the extent that it must be removed instead of repaired. This may lead to a gap and possible shifting among the other teeth. Because of this, you should consider replacing the tooth with a dental implant or bridge.
When you visit the dentist and tell him “I have a hole in my tooth but no pain,” he will use X-rays to see how close the cavity is to the nerves. He will also probably do test with an ice cold cotton swab to see the sensitivity of the tooth and best course of treatment. They will also need to keep an eye on the tooth in the future for signs of infection, such as swelling. The link below shows a detailed analysis of deep dental cavity and what treatment is needed in different cases, as explained by a dentist. Click to know more:http://summerleadental.com/deep-cavity-left-untreated/
What Other Dental Problems to Watch Out For?
Besides cavities or tooth decay which may cause pain when biting, visible pits or holes in teeth, pain when drinking or eating, tooth sensitivity, there are other dental problems.
1. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, or gum inflammation, due to dental plaque accumulating on teeth. Plaque that isn’t removed can become tartar, leading to sensitive, inflamed, or red gums. This can be prevented by removing plaque with daily flossing and brushing.
2. Periodontitis (Gum Disease)
This is an advanced stage for gum disease, when the tissues supporting the teeth (such as bones and gums) are inflamed. Over time, the tissues will detach from teeth, increasing the gap between gums and teeth. This can lead to the teeth loosening and gums become exposed. It can also lead to bone loss and eventually losing one or more teeth.
3. Receding Gums
Receding gums are when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth wears away. This is typically caused by dental hygiene which is inadequate or gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis. It may take years to develop gradually and the teeth will begin to look longer. Slowly the space between roots and teeth will get visible, increasing sensitivity. If it isn’t treated, the teeth in question may be lost.
4. Dental Abscess
Dental abscesses are created from pus and they affect the teeth or gums. They are due to bacterial infections, frequently starting as cavities or tooth infections. They will usually involve redness, swelling, and pain. As they advance, they may include diarrhea, chills, fever, vomiting, or nausea. There may also be cavities, gum inflammation, pus drainage, tenderness, or oral swelling.
Top 10 Dental Health Tips: Oral Hygiene