Is this a cavity?

Question:

It's two of my molars. It's one on the bottom and the one directly above it. It's not painful at all, it's kinda throbbing. But, it's not hurting really. It's just annoying. Now, I don't see a sign of a cavity. So, what could it be? Sensitivity maybe? And, it doesn't do this all the time. It goes away and then comes back during the day. And, it's also the side I chew on.

Answers:
It could be the upper tooth that is the problem or the lower, but I doubt both. Sometimes it is hard to tell and we call that referred pain. Some ideas of what it might be - sinus infection since the sinuses sit on the tops of the top teeth or a response to trauma, clenching or grinding since you chew on that side you are putting a tremendous amount of force. Or also, if you have a missing lower tooth on that side the one of the teeth above it may be shifting and essentially banging into that tooth more. IRemote chance it could be an abscess or decay.If it continues I would have it checked out at your dentists. Hope that helps!
JAMRDH - a dental hygienist

We can't diagnose this over the internet, so the best thing to do would be to make an appointment for the dentist. They'll check for a cavity (which is completely painless), and help you with whatever the problem may be. Sometimes YouQA.com is great, but this is one of those situations where you need to see the professional. Good luck!

You can't always see a cavity... that's why xrays are taken so the dentist can 'see' interproximally, or in between the teeth. Decay shows up dark on a film, so if it is decay, he'll be able to tell you.

On the other hand, if it started on the top and is now on the bottom, it could be referred pain, as another responder commented. In that case, you'd still need an xray to rule out decay..it could be a sinus infection.

Option 3 would be that you are a bruxer; you grind your teeth. Get an appointment, get some films taken, and let the dentist treat your symptoms.

Good Luck!

:)

Is this a cavity?

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