Almost everyone experiences tooth pain at one time or another, making it one of the most common reasons why people visit their dentist. Not all tooth pain is the same, however, and it can often be a warning sign that something is not right with your oral health. One way to stay on top of your dental health is by getting to know the different kinds of dental pain and what they may mean.
Cracked or broken teeth
A damaged tooth may or may not cause pain, but when it does, it usually means that the sensitive inner pulp of the tooth is affected. The pulp is home to nerves and blood vessels, which will produce significant pain when disrupted. This situation requires the immediate attention of your dentist, who may recommend root canal therapy.
Gum disease
Gum disease happens when bacteria is allowed to build up in the mouth, causing the gums to become swollen and inflamed. Pain and tenderness in the gums is one of the key signs of gum disease, even in its early stages. Untreated gum disease will get worse with time, so this is another scenario that requires a timely visit to your dental office.
Cavities
If you’re having tooth pain that doesn’t have a clear source, like a cracked tooth, then a cavity may be the culprit. Cavity pain can take many different forms. It can feel like a dull ache or a sharp shooting pain. It can be a persistent pain or only show up when eating or drinking. It’s important not to ignore a potential cavity, since it will progress without treatment and can affect the tooth pulp, causing even more pain and posing the risk of serious complications that require extraction.
Key takeaways
These are just a few of the potential causes of tooth pain. If you notice something is off with your mouth, don’t wait to get it looked at. The sooner you see your dentist, the sooner you will start feeling better. If you’re experiencing any amount of tooth pain, call us to schedule an appointment.
