"a cavity in my tooth" vs "a cavity on my tooth"

Question

"a cavity in my tooth" vs "a cavity on my tooth"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'A cavity in my tooth' is more commonly used to refer to a hole or decay inside the tooth, while 'a cavity on my tooth' is used to describe a hole or decay on the surface of the tooth.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

This phrase is used to describe a dental condition where there is decay or damage inside the tooth structure.

Examples:

I need to see the dentist about a cavity in my tooth.
The X-ray showed a cavity in my tooth.
The dentist filled the cavity in my tooth.
The cavity in my tooth was causing me pain.
She had a cavity in her tooth that needed treatment.

Alternatives:

a hole in my tooth
decay in my tooth
damage in my tooth

This phrase is used to describe a dental condition where there is decay or damage on the outer surface of the tooth.

Examples:

The dentist found a cavity on my tooth during the check-up.
I can see a cavity on my tooth when I look in the mirror.
The cavity on my tooth needs to be filled.
She had a cavity on her tooth that needed treatment.
The dentist repaired the cavity on my tooth.

Alternatives:

a hole on my tooth
decay on my tooth
damage on my tooth

Answer 1

a cavity in my tooth

This phrase is correct and commonly used to refer to a hole or decay inside the tooth.

Answer 2

a cavity on my tooth

This phrase is correct and commonly used to describe a hole or decay on the surface of the tooth.

"a cavity in my tooth" vs "a cavity on my tooth"

a cavity in my tooth

a cavity on my tooth

Related Comparisons