Many people will experience tooth pain at some point in their lives. It may be hard not to feel some type of it since there are several different culprits for it. That said, this discomfort can manifest in a few ways depending on the underlying issue. To help you know when you should visit your emergency dentist, here are three common types of tooth pain and what they mean.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold Things
When you try to enjoy a hot cup of coffee or a cold treat, does your tooth suddenly hurt? This is often sensitivity at hand. Acidic or sugary foods and the bacteria in your mouth can weaken your enamel.
This exposes the dentin underneath, which has channels that go down into the nerve. Foods and drinks with too high or too low a temperature can trigger them and cause pain. In several cases, this can be the start of a cavity, so it’s best to see your dentist to avoid trouble.
Lingering Aching
If you wake up in the morning and feel a dull aching, then you may be grinding or clenching your teeth during the night. This subconscious habit is also called bruxism, but it can wear down your enamel faster than expected. Your gums might also recede, so it’s important that you get a nightguard to protect your grin from the pressure.
In other cases, a stuck piece of food might be to blame. While many people are often able to get the morsel out themselves by brushing and flossing, you can head to your dentist if you need some help.
Sharp Pain
Sharp, sudden pain that lingers is often a dental abscess or infection. It may be throbbing, but you should see your provider right away. When left untreated, the problem can spread to your nearby teeth and gums or cause tooth loss in severe cases. Simply put, getting it corrected can help you have a comfortable smile once again. For these two conditions, swelling, a persistent bad taste, and fever are other symptoms you might have.
What About Other Types of Discomfort?
With all that said, tooth pain can change and manifest differently throughout the day. If you have any worries, then it may be best to just talk to your dentist. It’s better to be safe and sorry when it comes to your oral health. If nothing is going on, then great! If there is, then you can feel confident knowing you’ll get the relief you deserve soon enough.
About the Practice
At Epic Family Dentistry of Carrollton, our team is dedicated to helping the local community protect their smiles through a wide range of treatments. Led by Dr. Afshin Azmoodeh and Dr. Kim Cao, we try to prevent any problems. We are here for same-day urgent visits when one arises suddenly. By getting to the bottom of the issue, you can get the solution you need to get rid of the discomfort you’ve been feeling.
If you have a tooth that’s hurting, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling our office at (972)820-7294.