Recognise the Differences Between a Dental Cavity and Tooth Sensitivity

Understanding what’s happening with your teeth can feel overwhelming, especially when you experience discomfort. Is it a cavity, or are you dealing with tooth sensitivity? While both conditions affect oral health, they have distinct causes and symptoms. This blog will help you identify the differences between a dental cavity and tooth sensitivity.

Understanding the underlying causes of your tooth pain will help you decide when it’s time to see a dentist.

What Is a Dental Cavity?

A cavity, also known as tooth decay, is a permanently damaged area in the enamel (the hard, outer layer of your teeth). Cavities occur when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and produce acid, which gradually erodes the enamel.

Signs of a Cavity:

Persistent toothache or sharp pain when chewing.
Visible holes, pits, or dark spots on the tooth’s surface.
Sensitivity to sweet foods, hot or cold drinks, and even air.
Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.

Cavities worsen over time if untreated and can lead to infections or tooth loss. Early detection by a dental professional is key to preventing further damage.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity, on the other hand, is not caused by decay but occurs when the protective enamel wears down or when gum recession exposes the underlying dentin or tooth roots. The dentin has tiny tubules that connect to the nerve endings, which respond to stimuli like temperature changes.

Triggers of Tooth Sensitivity:

Cold or hot drinks.
Sweet or acidic foods.
Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles.
Teeth grinding (bruxism).
Recent dental work like fillings or whitening treatments.

Unlike cavities, tooth sensitivity usually doesn’t involve persistent pain but, instead, brief discomfort that resolves quickly after the stimulus is removed.

Key Differences Between Cavities and Sensitivity

Understanding the differences can help you describe your symptoms to your dentist and receive appropriate treatment.

FEATURE CAVITY TOOTH SENSITIVITY

CAUSE Bacterial Decay Enamel wear or gum erosion

PAIN TYPE Persistent or sharp pain Brief, triggered discomfort

VISIBLE SIGNS Holes, pits, or dark spots No visible changes

TREATMENT NEEDED Filling, crown or root canal Desensitising toothpaste, fluoride treatment

If you’re unsure whether you have a cavity or sensitivity, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and schedule a dental checkup.

When to See a Dentist

Both cavities and sensitivity require attention to prevent worsening symptoms. See a dentist as soon as possible if you notice:

Pain that doesn’t go away.
Signs of decay, like dark spots.
Frequent sensitivity that disrupts daily life.
Gums pulling away from teeth (gum recession).

Seeking professional advice early ensures that your teeth remain healthy and prevents costly or invasive treatments down the line.

Don’t Ignore Dental Discomfort—Book Your Checkup Today!

Ignoring tooth discomfort can lead to more severe problems over time. Whether it’s a cavity, sensitivity, or something else, your teeth deserve expert care. At Newnham Family Dental, we specialise in identifying and treating all types of dental concerns in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.

Schedule your dental checkup with us today! Your smile will thank you!