Tooth pain is one of the most common dental complaints. Your toothache can be something mild to one that makes daily life more uncomfortable. But did you know where and what type of discomfort you’re feeling can help tell why you are experiencing it? Whether it’s major or minor pain, your emergency dentist can help you find the root of the problem and fix it for good. In the meantime, read on to learn about different types of tooth pain and what they may be telling you.
Dull & Lingering Ache
A dull ache in your tooth may suggest a few different issues. For starters, it can be food that is stuck between your teeth or lodged in the gums. Thoroughly brushing and flossing can help remove the debris and relieve your pain!
Another cause can be teeth grinding or clenching. Also known as bruxism, it’s a subconscious behavior that can strain your teeth and jaw. It can lead to sore jaw muscles and discomfort while eating. Your dentist can see the signs of bruxism and give you a nightguard to protect your teeth during the night.
Tooth Sensitivity
If you try to enjoy something hot or cold and experience sudden pain, it may be a sign of teeth sensitivity. It can be caused by issues that expose the more sensitive parts of the teeth, such as enamel erosion, gum recession, tooth infection, or a cracked tooth.
Only your dentist can help find the cause of tooth sensitivity and give you the necessary treatment to stop it. There are ways to minimize the pain, such as switching to sensitive teeth toothpaste and avoiding foods that are overly hot, cold, or acidic.
Sharp, Throbbing Pain
If you are experiencing sharp and throbbing pain, it often points to an urgent dental emergency. It can be a sign of an abscessed tooth, which means bacteria in your mouth have entered the innermost part of your teeth or surrounding tissue, resulting in an infection. This type of pain can also be accompanied by facial swelling, a bad taste in your mouth, and a fever.
It’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible for this type of tooth pain. Dental infections cannot go away on their own, so if ignored, they can spread to other parts of your mouth and body. Your dentist can prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection, but a root canal may be recommended to remove the infected tissue.
Other Types of Dental Pain
Some discomfort you feel in your mouth may not come from the tooth itself. Sometimes, it can be jaw or facial pain, and some discomfort may originate from the gums. However, these types of issues still deserve treatment, and your dentist may be able to assist. You can always give them a call and talk about the type of pain and where it’s coming from so they can help you decide to come in immediately or soon.
About the Practice
At Family & Implant Dentistry of Stuart, we take pride in caring for your oral health. We tailor treatment plans for each patient so they can leave with a happy smile. In the event of a dental emergency, we are here for you and can often provide same-day care! If a toothache is putting a damper on your daily life, schedule an appointment or call us at (772) 286-3088.