Small black hole in tooth
A small black hole may be decay, a stained groove, a lost filling, or another defect, so it needs a dental examination.
The short answer
A dark opening in enamel should be examined because a small visible defect can extend into dentine beneath the surface.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Bacterial acids can dissolve enamel and create cavitation. Other possibilities include a stained fissure, chipped enamel, an old restoration, or food trapped in a defect.
What can you do next?
Keep the area clean with fluoride toothpaste and avoid picking at it. Do not seal or fill the opening with household material before diagnosis.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange care soon if the tooth is sensitive, painful on biting, traps food, or has swelling or a bad taste. A sudden break or facial swelling warrants prompt attention.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask whether the mark is active decay, a stain, a fracture, or a failed filling. Ask whether imaging, a filling, or monitoring is appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
Can a small hole heal itself?
Early mineral loss may sometimes be managed with fluoride and risk control, but a cavitated hole needs professional evaluation.
Is every black spot a cavity?
No. Stain, a fissure, a restoration, or decay can look dark, so examination is needed.