Are you having pain in your posterior teeth and are unable to tell what might be the reason? Well, in that case, you must know the difference between wisdom tooth pain and a cavity. Wisdom tooth problems are very common, affecting around 65-75% of Americans. Sometimes, a patient can mistake it for pain due to a cavity.
This blog compares wisdom tooth pain with that brought on by a cavity so that you can seek dental help at the right time.
What Does the Difference Between Wisdom Tooth Pain and a Cavity Look Like?
Let us have a look at the difference between dental decay and wisdom tooth pain:
Wisdom Tooth-associated Pain
- Wisdom tooth eruption pain is usually felt at the very back of the mouth, behind the second molars, where the wisdom tooth is expected to erupt.
- Intermittent discomfort, especially if the tooth is impacted or has partly erupted. The pain may worsen over time.
- Pain may feel like pressure or throbbing and often worsens when inflamed tissue around the tooth is touched or irritated.
- Possible symptoms include gum soreness, swelling, discomfort or limited mouth opening or pressing over the back region, and pain radiating to the head, ear, or jaw.
Pain Originating From a Cavity
- Cavity pain may occur in any tooth with significant decay, though early cavities may not cause pain.
- The pain duration might be variable or continuous, depending on the extent of the cavity.
- The pain can be sharp, lingering, or sensitive to hot, cold, or sweets, especially as decay progresses closer to the nerve.
- Decay may appear as dark spots or holes, but many cavities, especially between teeth, are not visible without X-rays.
When to Seek Dental Care
Whether the pain is due to a wisdom tooth or a cavity, you may need dental care in both cases. It’s also possible to have both a cavity and wisdom tooth irritation at the same time. The ADA suggests that if you experience the following, it is better to see a dentist: persistent pain, swelling, fever, or signs of infection.
The Final Message
Differentiating between wisdom tooth pain and a cavity can be difficult, especially with patients having a limited mouth opening. In that case, early referral to the dentist is the right action to take.
If you are having jaw pain and are unsure of identifying the cause yourself, then reach out to Nimmi Shine Dental, where the dental experts will let you know whether the pain is due to a wisdom tooth or a cavity. Try not to delay and call us at (858) 999-8550 for an appointment today.
