Dentist Questions Dentist

Do cavities cause sensitivity?

I have a cavity on my front tooth. I also have teeth sensitivity. Do cavities cause sensitivity?

7 Answers

Decay causing a cavity can definitely cause pain. As the decay progresses nearer the nerve there is less insulation to isolate the nerve from temperature extremes. If the tooth is sensitive to sweet that often times indicates somewhere the decay is just reaching or has reached where the enamel connects to the dentin. If the decay is allowed to progress long enough it will eventually irreparably damage the nerve killing the tooth. Often this is painful but not always. Getting the decay removed or arresting it's progression are the only options we currently have to preserve the tooth long term.
Yes, that can be one of the reasons you have tooth sensitivity. Please seek out dental care from a general dentist asap. Cavities just get bigger the longer you leave them, they grow daily until the tooth breaks or you get extreme pain.     
Cavities may cause sensitivity and pain depending on how deep they are. Healthy teeth can also become sensitive sometimes. Fix your cavities and use Flouridex toothpaste for sensitivity. It is by prescription. You can also try Pro enamel toothpaste which is over the counter. 


Yes. It also depends how extensive the decay is. You better see your dentist and get it fixed.
Yes, definitely. And if ignored too long, it will infect the nerve, cause an abscess and severe pain. Such infections that near the brain have in a few cases caused death. Go get it fixed!

Ron H., DDS
Cavities are caused by sugar eating bacteria that attacked the teeth. As their destruction goes deeper, through the enamel into the substructure, the distance to the nerve is less. Ultimately the decay will reach the nerve and cause pain, not just sensitivity. If a tooth is sensitive, it needs professional attention! Don’t delay, as it’s getting worse by the moment. Besides, decay on front teeth usually shows as dark areas that you can see when you look closely in the mirror at your teeth.
Yes. As the decay gets closer to the nerve, there is less tooth structure to protect the nerve, so there will be sensitivity.