Is the reddish spot on my molar tooth a cavity?

Question

Hi doctor,

I was wondering if my back teeth have a cavity. When I was examining my molars, I came across a strange reddish color on top. I did some research on the internet and read that a cavity will be either brown or black in color. I am very confused. I do not want it to spread and I am asking you just to make sure whether it is a cavity. Also, it hurts a little when I poke it.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You are right. Cavities usually look brown or black. But, it may still be a cavity that is stained. It could also be something called chronic hyperplastic pulpitis, which looks like a red swelling in the middle of the tooth. It is a slow chronic irritation of the pulp by the cavity. It is also known as pulp polyp and will require root canal treatment. Since you have not posted any pictures, diagnosis cannot be given accurately. So, I suggest you post pictures and if possible get an IOPA X-ray (intraoral periapical) of the tooth.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.