Tooth Sensitivity vs. Cavity Pain
Sensitivity is a brief, sharp response to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli; cavity pain is more lingering, often spontaneous, and signals active decay reaching the dentin or pulp.
Key Facts
- Sensitivity dissipates within seconds after the stimulus is removed
- Cavity pain often lingers and can wake you at night
- Exposed dentin or recession causes most non-cavity sensitivity
- Spontaneous throbbing pain suggests pulp involvement and needs urgent care
Tooth Sensitivity Explained
Dentin hypersensitivity occurs when fluid in dentinal tubules moves in response to thermal, osmotic, or tactile stimuli, triggering nerve fibers. It does not indicate decay on its own.
Cavity Pain Explained
Caries-related pain emerges as decay penetrates enamel into dentin. As it nears the pulp, pain becomes lingering, spontaneous, and may radiate.
How to Tell Them Apart
Time the pain. Under five seconds = likely sensitivity. Lasting minutes, throbbing, waking you at night = likely cavity, cracked tooth, or pulpitis.