A dental complaint that many people often express is feeling some sort of tooth pain. This problem can be caused by a wide range of issues, but it can manifest in several different ways. It can be confusing finding out when you should go to your dentist about your discomfort. To help make it easier, here are the types of tooth pain and what they typically mean so you feel confident handling them.
1.) Tooth Sensitivity
If you eat something hot, cold, sweet, or acidic and your tooth hurts, then it’s likely sensitivity. It often doesn’t linger and is abrupt, but enamel erosion is typically the cause.
When plaque lingers on your smile, it can weaken the outer layer because of the acid they produce when they eat sugar. This exposes the dentin underneath, and it has channels that go down to the nerve. Oftentimes, this happening may be the start of a cavity, so your dentist can help you avoid trouble.
2.) Dull Aching
Dull, lingering aching when you wake up in the morning is often caused by bruxism. This is a subconscious habit where you grind and clench your teeth during the night. Aside from the slight pain, you may also have increased enamel wear and gum recession. In order to treat this problem, a nightguard can protect your smile while you snooze.
In other cases, it may be a stuck piece of food. This situation often doesn’t need an urgent dental visit, as you can hopefully get it out at home. Try brushing again and flossing, but tie a knot in the thread; that way, you can move the morsel out. If you have trouble, your dentist can help as well.
3.) Sharp Pain
A dental abscess or infection is often the culprit for sharp, throbbing pain. Both scenarios need immediate care, so head to your provider right away. When left untreated, the problem can spread or cause tooth loss. Instead, getting it corrected will give you the comfortable grin you deserve to have. Swelling, a bad taste, and fever are a few other symptoms you might feel with these issues.
4.) Other Types of Discomfort
There may be more types of dental discomfort not mentioned above. It can change throughout the day, but your dentist is here to help you regardless. They will get you the relief you deserve, so you feel confident showing off your smile. It’s often better to be safe than sorry; that way, you flaunt a grin you don’t have to worry about.
About the Author
At Canyon Creek Family Dentistry of Richardson, our team is dedicated to helping patients in the local community get the problem-free teeth and gums they deserve with a wide range of treatments. Led by compassionate dentists, we are proud to offer same-day urgent visits to those to get the care they need. If you are currently experiencing tooth pain, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling our office at (972) 644-3800.