When you see something like spinach, poppy seeds, or chewed food stuck in your smile, it feels gross. However, it’s nothing compared to finding holes in your teeth that aren’t cavities. They are usually stained fissures and grooves. So, let’s learn how to spot them.
I Can Feel a Hole in My Tooth with My Tongue
It is possible that you feel a hole in your tooth when you run your tongue over it. However, not all holes in teeth are cavities. Following are some other reasons why you might notice those holes:
- Enamel Erosion: Acidic foods and drinks can wear down the tooth’s enamel, creating small holes.
- Dental Trauma: A chip or crack from an injury can create a hole, which might expose the inner parts of the tooth.
- Abrasion and Attrition: Brushing too hard or grinding your teeth can wear down the tooth surface and create holes over time.
- Dental Anomalies: Some people are born with natural pits or grooves in their teeth that aren’t caused by decay.
- Root Resorption: In rare cases, the roots of teeth can break down, leaving holes, often due to infections or trauma.
- Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can cause gums to recede and form small pockets or holes around the teeth.
Diagnosing the Holes in Teeth That Aren’t Cavities
Identifying the holes in teeth that aren’t cavities is important to prevent further problems and get the right dental care. These holes need a specific approach for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Visual Check: Dentists first examine the tooth for signs like discoloration, unusual wear, or visible pits that could suggest issues other than decay.
- Symptom Review: They ask about symptoms like sensitivity to hot or cold or pain when biting. For example, sensitivity to cold might mean enamel erosion, while pain when biting could be due to a crack.
- Dental X-rays: X-rays help see changes inside the tooth, like resorption, that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
- Dental History: Reviewing your dental history, including any past injuries or habits like teeth grinding, helps pinpoint the cause.
- Tooth Vitality Tests: Testing the tooth’s nerve helps determine if it’s affected and guides treatment decisions.
- Consultation for Other Conditions: If conditions like acid reflux are suspected to contribute to enamel erosion, you might need to consult with a medical professional.
Treatment Options for Non-Cavity Holes
Treating holes in teeth that aren’t cavities depends on the problem. Following are some treatments you can opt for:
- Dental Fillings: Used to fix minor damage from cracks or wear.
- Dental Crowns: Cover more extensive damage with a protective cap.
- Root Canal Therapy: Needed if the tooth’s inner pulp is infected.
- Dental Inlays or Onlays: Custom-made restorations for damage from trauma or teeth grinding, preserving more of the tooth than a full crown.
- Fluoride Treatments: Strengthen enamel and help prevent further damage.
Closing Note
Having holes in teeth that aren’t cavities can pique your interest. Due to a common misconception, a layperson can take every pit or groove for a cavity. It is hard to identify a cavity. In fact, dentists also use dental X-rays and probes to tell if a tooth is healthy.
Visit our expert dental professionals at Village Park Family Dentist of Cypress. Our skilled dentists offer various services and educate patients about dental care. Dial (281) 376-4444 for appointment.