Here’s the kicker: cavities don’t always hurt. Yep, you read that right. Just because your teeth aren’t giving you grief doesn’t mean they’re all good under the hood. In fact, by the time a cavity does start hurting, it might already be a bit of a situation.
In this blog, we’ll break down what cavities are, why they don’t always hurt, and the sneaky signs that might suggest you’ve got a dental drama brewing. If you’re in Australia and wondering when it’s time to call your dentist, this one’s for you.
What Actually Is a Cavity?
Let’s start with the basics. A cavity (also known as dental caries) is a hole in your tooth caused by tooth decay. It all starts when plaque, that sticky film full of bacteria, builds up on your teeth. These bacteria love sugary or starchy foods and turn them into acid. Over time, this acid starts to break down your tooth’s protective enamel, leading to decay.
Once the enamel wears down, the cavity can dig deeper into the tooth layers, first dentin, and eventually the pulp (which contains nerves and blood vessels). That’s when things really start to hurt.
Do Cavities Always Hurt?
Short answer? Nope.
Many people assume that pain is the first sign of a cavity. But in reality, early cavities are usually painless. You could have a decent-sized cavity forming, and unless it’s close to a nerve or has caused significant damage, you might not feel a thing.
That’s one of the biggest reasons regular dental checkups are so important. A dentist can spot problems before they turn into full-blown toothaches.
Sneaky Signs You Might Have a Cavity
So if your tooth isn’t hurting, how do you know if something’s wrong? Here are some less obvious signs to watch out for:
1. Tooth Sensitivity
Do you wince when you have an icy cold drink or bite into a warm pie? That tingling or zinging feeling could be your tooth telling you something’s up. Tooth sensitivity can be an early sign of enamel wear or minor decay.
2. Visible Holes or Pits
Grab a mirror and have a quick squiz at your teeth. Can you see any tiny holes, pits, or dark spots that weren’t there before? They might not hurt yet, but they could be the start of a cavity.
3. Discolouration
Not all cavities look black. Sometimes, they appear as white spots (early enamel damage) or brown patches. If your tooth looks like it’s changing colour, don’t ignore it.
4. Bad Breath or a Bad Taste
Cavities can trap food and bacteria, leading to persistent bad breath or a yuck taste in your mouth, even after brushing. If your breath smells a bit dodgy and you’re not sure why, it might be worth getting checked out.
5. Pain When Biting or Chewing
You might not feel constant pain, but if there’s a sharp jolt when you bite down on a sandwich or chew gum, that’s a red flag. It could mean the decay is closer to the nerve.
What Happens If You Ignore a Cavity?
We get it — dentist visits aren’t everyone’s favourite activity. But putting it off can lead to bigger issues down the track. Here’s what might happen if a cavity is left untreated:
- Deeper decay: It’ll keep digging into the tooth layers.
- Tooth infection: Once it hits the pulp, you’re in root canal territory.
- Tooth loss: In extreme cases, the tooth might need to be pulled.
- Pain and swelling: When the nerve is involved, it can get real painful, real quick.
- Spread of infection: Bacteria from an untreated cavity can spread to other parts of your body — not something you want to mess with.
Can You Reverse a Cavity?
Good news — early-stage tooth decay can be stopped or even reversed, but only before a cavity actually forms. This stage is when you’ve got demineralisation (those chalky white spots). With fluoride treatment, good oral hygiene, and a tooth-friendly diet, you might be able to nip it in the bud.
But once a cavity forms, it won’t heal itself. You’ll need a dentist to step in with a filling or other treatment.
What’s the Fix?
Depending on how bad the cavity is, your dentist might recommend:
- Fluoride treatment: For very early decay.
- Filling: The most common solution for small-to-medium cavities.
- Crown: For larger cavities that have weakened the tooth.
- Root canal: If the decay’s reached the nerve.
- Extraction: Last resort if the tooth can’t be saved.
How to Prevent Cavities (And Avoid the Drill)
Let’s be honest — prevention’s a whole lot easier (and cheaper) than treatment. Here’s how to keep your pearly whites cavity-free:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to clean between teeth
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Drink tap water — in most Aussie towns, it’s got added fluoride
- Visit your dentist every 6–12 months
- Chew sugar-free gum after meals if you can’t brush
Final Thoughts: If It Doesn’t Hurt, That Doesn’t Mean It’s Fine
In true Aussie fashion, a lot of us tend to “tough it out” when it comes to health. But when it comes to your teeth, ignoring the signs could land you in hot water — or at least a dentist’s chair with a bigger bill.
No pain doesn’t always mean no problem. Cavities can be sneaky little things. Keep an eye out for any changes in your teeth and get regular checkups even if everything feels okay.
Your smile will thank you later — and so will your bank account!
