“Is a small hole in a tooth a cavity?”

By definition, a hole or empty space is a cavity. But a cavity is not always due to dental decay. Decay causes a weakening in the tooth enamel and that leads to a hole or cavity. But some holes in teeth are developmental--pitted areas caused by the way the tooth was formed when it erupted into the mouth. Holes that are not caused by decay are best treated with a sealant material that covers the pitted area so that food particles don't get stuck there and cause decay.

It can be. It can also be the area where you have worn off your tooth, if you clench and/or grind. You have to have .a dentist evaluate it and most likely fill to prevent food impaction.

A small hole is probably a cavity. It could be a chipped area, but should be checked by your dentist.

Most likely, yes. I would get it checked out ASAP.

Owen M. Waldman, DMD

Yes.

Hello,

Glad to see you are concerned about your dental care. By definition a hole is a cavity. However, that does not necessarily mean that it is what we refer to as "a cavity" in dentistry. If the hole you notice has been there as long as you can remember, it may just be a unique formation of the tooth that is perfectly intact tooth structure. That being said, if it is new it could either be a broken part of the tooth or an actual cavity. Small cavities are actually hard to define for even trained professionals and occasionally there is some disagreement. If you are unsure, why don't you get a free consultation from a dentist or a couple of dentists?
Hope this helps.

My best to you!

William F. Scott IV, DMD