What causes a hole in my tooth without pain?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 27 years old and have not seen a dentist since I was 18. I have a hole that has started to develop in one of my top teeth (although I have not experienced pain from it), and I believe it is due to a cavity or gum disease. I use spitting tobacco and know I have other teeth issues. But, I am first concerned about the hole in the tooth.

The question is not whether I should see a dentist (I obviously should and will), but what I should specify as the reason for visiting the dentist.

Should I specify cleaning checkups, broken teeth, or cavities?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your clinical images (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

Yes, it is a cavity and not a gum problem. In medical terminology, it is called a class-V dental cavity.
If it does not pain, it can be simply filled with a GIC (glass ionomer cement) or composite (veneer).
Composite is better in aesthetics as well as hardness. You must opt for it though GIC is relatively cheap.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.