Can cavities cause ear pain? Separating dental cavity fact from fiction
Can cavities cause ear pain? Separating dental cavity fact from fiction
As a periodontal office, we routinely see dental cavities in our patients. We hear just as many questions about the effects and causes of cavity issues. In this article, we will answer some of the most common questions to help you separate fact from fiction regarding your dental health.
Can cavities cause ear pain?
Yes, cavities can cause ear pain and earaches. The reason why cavity pain can spread from the teeth to the ears involves the complex arrangement of the nerves in the teeth, jaws, and ears. These nerves are interconnected, and pain signals can easily spread to adjoining areas.
Certain kinds of cavities are more likely to cause ear pain than others. Those that are serious, deep, or advanced are common culprits. The back molars are closest to the ears, making ear pain from cavities more likely when involving those teeth. It is pretty rare for cavities in the front teeth to contribute to earaches in the same manner or degree.
Does coffee cause cavities?
The answer to this question is nuanced. On its own, black coffee does not cause or contribute to cavities. It might actually have a positive effect on teeth due to its antibacterial properties. However, most of the coffee consumed these days is accompanied by ample amounts of syrups, sugars, and heavy creamers.
If you are concerned about coffee contributing to cavity development, there are some steps you can take to limit your risk. The easiest and most effective way is to drink your coffee or espresso black. By doing so, you will avoid the sugar that often causes cavities. If you want to take it one step further, consider rinsing your mouth with water after each coffee. This practice not only reduces the acidic effects of coffee but also helps alleviate dry mouth and promotes saliva production.
Can retainers cause cavities?
Retainers don’t cause cavities in isolation. Problems can arise when they trap bacteria and food particles. If they aren’t cleaned properly, retainers can transfer harmful bacteria to the teeth and gums. Over time, the teeth can become damaged and more susceptible to cavities.
There are a few things you can do to keep your retainers from causing cavities. First, ensure that you remove your retainers when eating or drinking foods that contain sugar. Bacteria multiply in the presence of sugar, so you want to make sure you keep your retainers far away from unhealthy snacks. Additionally, it’s essential to clean your retainers daily. Doing so will remove harmful bacteria before they cause problems.
Can grinding teeth cause cavities?
Yes, over time, grinding your teeth can contribute to the development of cavities. Grinding your teeth can wear down the tooth enamel. Enamel is the natural defense your teeth have against tooth decay and other dental problems. Without it, your teeth become extremely sensitive and more likely to develop cavities. In addition, grinding can create small cracks in your teeth where bacteria can enter and cause cavities from the inside.
The best way to prevent the damage caused by teeth grinding is to manage your stress levels and ensure you are sleeping soundly throughout the night. You can also wear a mouth guard while sleeping to prevent the grinding from happening at all.
Your dental health experts
At Sacramento Periodontics, we are dental health experts. Our doctors and staff have decades of experience preventing and treating dental cavities. We employ cutting-edge technology to identify potential problems and address areas of concern before they escalate into more significant issues. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
We look forward to helping you achieve your healthiest smile yet.