Yes, you can physically touch a cavity, but it's likely to be uncomfortable or painful.
Understanding Cavities and Touch Sensitivity
While the physical act of touching a cavity is possible, it's important to understand what's happening within a cavity that makes this experience unpleasant. Here’s a breakdown:
- What is a Cavity? A cavity, also known as tooth decay or dental caries, is a damaged area in the hard surface of your teeth that develops into tiny holes.
- Why Does it Hurt When Touched? The reference clearly states: "Cavities don't 'like' to be touched. If anything rubs up against the damaged parts of your teeth, it can cause pain or discomfort." This is because the protective enamel layer of the tooth has been eroded, exposing the sensitive dentin beneath which contains nerve endings.
- Not Just Sensitivity: The discomfort experienced is more than just general tooth sensitivity. It's a specific pain caused by direct contact with the damaged area. As the reference points out, "Some people don't realize their teeth shouldn't hurt if touched."
Factors Affecting the Pain of Touching a Cavity
Several factors can influence how painful it is to touch a cavity:
- Cavity Size and Depth: Deeper, larger cavities tend to be more painful when touched because they expose more of the sensitive dentin.
- Location: Cavities closer to the nerve of the tooth are more likely to cause significant pain.
- Individual Pain Threshold: Each person’s pain sensitivity differs. What’s mildly uncomfortable for one person could be severely painful for another.
- Stage of the Cavity: Early-stage cavities might not cause as much pain as advanced ones.
What To Do If Your Cavity Hurts When Touched
If you experience pain when touching a cavity, here are some steps you should consider:
- Schedule a Dental Appointment: Get the cavity treated by a dentist. Delaying treatment can lead to more pain and complications.
- Avoid Touching the Affected Area: Reduce contact with the cavity to minimize discomfort.
- Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent further decay and complications.
- Use a Desensitizing Toothpaste: Consider toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth to alleviate pain.
Key Takeaway
- While you can touch a cavity, this act often results in pain or discomfort due to the exposed, sensitive dentin. This experience is more than just regular tooth sensitivity; it’s a specific pain caused by direct contact.
