Hole in a Tooth

Mouth bacteria make acid when they meet sugars and starches. Frequent acid exposure strips minerals from enamel, weakens it, and eventually creates a cavity.

Keep the area clean with fluoride toothpaste and interdental cleaning, and avoid frequent sugary food and drinks. A cavity itself will not be rebuilt by brushing.

A check may identify a visible hole, white, brown, or black staining, or soft and sticky areas. An X-ray can show decay that cannot be seen directly.

Fluoride can reverse decay before a hole forms. A cavity usually needs a filling; decay reaching the pulp may need root canal treatment, while an affected tooth may sometimes need extraction.

Use fluoride, brush twice daily, clean between teeth each day, limit sugary foods and drinks, avoid tobacco, and attend regular examinations and professional cleanings.

Pain and sensitivity may accompany a cavity. If the tooth or gum becomes infected, pus can collect as a dental abscess and cause swelling or fever.

Untreated decay can cause worsening pain, infection, and tooth loss. Facial swelling or fever with dental pain points to an infection needing prompt attention.