Question 1

can a dry mouth cause cavities?

Accepted Answer

Yes: One of the functions of saliva is constant flushing of the teeth and oral tissues to remove any food debris.  This prevents bacterial buildup which is responsible for dental decay.  Additionally, salivary enzymes also have anti-bacterial properties which also prevents decay.

Question 2

i have a tooth that has a hole. it feels like my mouth has cavities. the tooth has been cracked for about 8 years now and never have me problems. there is a slight pain. what can i use in the meantime as i wait to go to the dentist on saturday?

Accepted Answer

NSAIDs: Visit any one of these pharmacies and purchase an over the counter pain medicine:

https://www.google.com/maps/search/Bloemfontein,+9301,+South+Africa+pharmacy/@-29.134605,26.206201,12z/data=!3m1!4b1

Question 3

do whitening mouth washes aggravate cavities?

Accepted Answer

No: Cavities are caused by bacteria.  If you already have a cavity, whitening mouth washes will not by itself aggravate the cavity.

Question 4

is mouth pain from cavities or something else?

Accepted Answer

Too many possible: Sure a cavity can cause pain, but it could be a sore in the mouth, an infection, a bone cyst in the upper or lower jaw, a bruise from trauma, an extra growing tooth, a deep abscess needing a root canal.  Best to see a dentist and get it checked thoroughly.

Question 5

does swishing your saliva around your mouth help prevent cavities?

Accepted Answer

No: The best prevention will always be proper brushing and flossing.

Question 6

is it safe to be mixing anti-cavity mouth rinse with whitening mouth rinse?

Accepted Answer

Not good idea: It's never a good idea to mix meds, even if otc.  Ingredients in one could possibly alter action of the other.

Question 7

small bump roof of mouth.behind ridges. size of pen head, slightly bigger.present 1 month no change.noticed after mouth injury. worried. cavities also

Accepted Answer

2 problems: You have reason to be worried. Cavities are infections. They do not self heal. Treat them before infection spreads. Lesion on palate is there too long. May be draining abscess or something even more severe. You know what you have to do, see a Dentist IMMEDIATELY. You need professional care. Pills, poultices, salves, and the internet will not cure.

Question 8

i have used nasalcrom (cromolyn) 2 x a day for several years.  i have dry mouth with 2 cavities. 71 years of age. nasalcrom (cromolyn) works but does it  cause dry mouth?

Accepted Answer

Stop nasalcrom (cromolyn)?: It may not be necessary anymore to continue nasalcrom;  saline nasal spray would suffice.

Question 9

i came in and saw him and he gave me a quote for braces and a mouth guard, and need cavities filled. i am wondering if he will go any lower in pricing since i don't have insurance. will he do a large cash discount. thank you?

Accepted Answer

Ask: You can always ask for a cash consideration. Some offices give a 5-10% discount. The costs of running a dental office are considerably high. Most dentist are aware of the norms in prices of services. A inexpensive office is not always just as good as any other dental office. If the dental office has a good reputation, do what you can afford at this time. Work on long term goals.

Question 10

can an infection in the mouth possibly from a cavity make the neck swollen?

Accepted Answer

Mouth infection: Yes, the infection can cause the lymph gland in your neck tonswell.

Get Virtual Care

For Businesses

About Us

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Doctor answers about:

Mouth cavity

A member asked:

Can a dry mouth cause cavities?

A member asked:

I have a tooth that has a hole. it feels like my mouth has cavities. the tooth has been cracked for about 8 years now and never have me problems. there is a slight pain. what can i use in the meantime as i wait to go to the dentist on saturday?

A member asked:

Do whitening mouth washes aggravate cavities?

A member asked:

Is mouth pain from cavities or something else?

A member asked:

Does swishing your saliva around your mouth help prevent cavities?

A member asked:

Is it safe to be mixing anti-cavity mouth rinse with whitening mouth rinse?

A member asked:

Small bump roof of mouth.behind ridges. size of pen head, slightly bigger.present 1 month no change.noticed after mouth injury. worried. cavities also

A member asked:

I have used nasalcrom (cromolyn) 2 x a day for several years. i have dry mouth with 2 cavities. 71 years of age. nasalcrom (cromolyn) works but does it cause dry mouth?

A member asked:

I came in and saw him and he gave me a quote for braces and a mouth guard, and need cavities filled. i am wondering if he will go any lower in pricing since i don't have insurance. will he do a large cash discount. thank you?

A member asked:

Can an infection in the mouth possibly from a cavity make the neck swollen?

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Telemedicine

Primary Care

Manage Your Conditions

Women's Health

Children's Health

Men's Health

Senior Health

Wellness, Prevention & Lifestyle

Sexual Health

Mental & Behavioral Health

Travel Medicine

Urgent Care

Didn't find what you're looking for?

More of what we treat

Allergies

Antibiotics

Asthma

High Blood Pressure

Prescriptions

Type 2 Diabetes

For Businesses

Company

Health Content

Join Us

Download HealthTap

Questions?