When Your Teeth Hurt
When dental pain occurs, it’s always for a reason. Whether you have mild discomfort or severe and debilitating pain, don’t delay. Dental problems don’t go away on their own, and timely care can prevent a simple issue from turning into a more complicated and serious one. If you are asking, “Why do my teeth hurt?” you can get the answer with a visit to Associates In Dentistry. Call 309-690-4500.
Tooth Pain Can Have Many Causes
Understanding the reason for your pain will indicate the proper treatment. We’ll examine your mouth and determine what steps are necessary to relieve the pain or discomfort you’re experiencing. Some of the common issues that cause dental pain include:
- Tooth decay: One of the most common reasons for tooth pain is tooth decay. When bacteria in your mouth break down sugars, they produce acids that erode the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. If left untreated, this erosion can progress to the dentin layer beneath the enamel, leading to sensitivity and pain. As the decay advances, it can reach the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels, causing intense pain and potentially leading to an abscess.
- Gum disease: Also known as periodontal disease, this is another leading cause of tooth pain. This condition begins with gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. Proper dental cleanings are an important part of prevention. If untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that can become infected. The infection and inflammation can lead to tooth pain and even tooth loss in severe cases.
- Tooth sensitivity: This common condition that causes sharp, sudden pain when your teeth are exposed to hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods and drinks. This pain is usually due to the exposure of the dentin layer, which can happen when the enamel is worn down or when gums recede, exposing the roots of the teeth. Sensitivity can also occur after dental procedures like fillings or whitening treatments.
- Teeth grinding: Bruxism, or teeth grinding, often occurs during sleep and can lead to tooth pain over time. The constant pressure and friction can wear down the enamel, leading to sensitivity and pain. In severe cases, bruxism can cause cracks or fractures in the teeth, which can be extremely painful and may require dental intervention.
- Dental abscess: This is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It can occur in different parts of the tooth or gum and often results in throbbing pain. Abscesses are serious and require prompt dental treatment, as the infection can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Symptoms of a dental abscess include severe pain, swelling, fever and a bad taste in the mouth.
Do You Still Have Your Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, the last set of molars that usually emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, can sometimes become impacted. This means they don’t have enough space to come in properly and may push against other teeth, leading to pain and discomfort. Impacted wisdom teeth can also cause swelling, infection and damage to adjacent teeth.
Have You Had An Injury?
Teeth can crack or fracture due to various reasons, including trauma, biting down on something hard, or even extensive wear and tear. Depending on the severity of the crack, you may experience pain when chewing, biting or when the tooth is exposed to temperature changes. Some cracks are not visible to the naked eye, but they can still cause significant pain and require professional diagnosis and treatment.
Sometimes, It’s Not Really Your Teeth
Surprisingly, sinus infections can sometimes cause tooth pain, particularly in the upper back teeth. The roots of these teeth are close to the sinuses. When the sinuses become inflamed due to infection or allergies, they can press on the nerves of the teeth. This can cause pain. If your tooth pain is accompanied by sinus pressure, nasal congestion or a headache, a sinus infection could be the culprit.
We’re Ready To Help
We have multiple convenient locations and more than 40 professional and support staff. We are able to address all your routine dental needs:
There’s No Need To Suffer With Dental Pain
“Why do my teeth hurt?” We can help answer this question. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe tooth pain, it’s essential to call us as soon as possible. Give Associates In Dentistry a call today at (309) 690-4500.
