Experiencing Tooth Pain? 5 Potential Underlying Causes
Having pain in your teeth or gums can be a cause for concern, and it’s important to identify the cause of the pain to determine what treatments are needed. Tooth pain can come from various sources, such as tooth decay, a dental abscess, or even mouth cancer. Fortunately, most tooth pains will not be serious and are often caused by a minor issue that can typically be resolved quickly. The following are common causes of tooth pain.
Tooth Sensitivity
The most common reason for experiencing tooth pain is due to sensitivity. The root of the tooth is surrounded by tissue called the periodontal ligament. When the gums pull away from the teeth, tooth sensitivity occurs. Although this does not necessarily indicate damage, you may experience discomfort when eating cold food or experiencing hot and cold temperature changes.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is more common in adults than children, although anyone can suffer from tooth decay due to bacteria in the mouth. Tooth decay occurs when plaque is not removed from the teeth. The bacteria in the plaque will slowly break down the enamel on your teeth, resulting in tooth pain and larger cavities that can lead to your tooth needing to be removed.
A Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is caused by bacteria entering the bone under your tooth, leading to inflammation. You might experience pain when chewing food and notice swelling in your jaw and around the tooth. The area will also feel warm to the touch, and you may notice a red or white patch on your gums.
A Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth can also cause you to experience sharp pain in or around your teeth, especially when eating or drinking cold food or liquids. The tooth is cracked if you notice any swelling around your crown or elsewhere. This can be a serious issue, especially if the tooth’s root has become exposed. Crowns may be fitted if the tooth is cracked too far.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can lead to pain in your jaw, headache, and damaged teeth. The teeth will grind together, causing the upper and lower teeth to wear each other down until you notice signs of tooth damage, such as cracks or chips. Tooth grinding can be caused by stress and anxiety, and it’s recommended that you consult your dentist if you notice any pain or damage from this condition.
With these common causes of tooth pain, it’s important to find a solution. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, cavities, or a dental abscess, you must contact your dentist as soon as possible. If you grind your teeth or have cracked teeth, you will likely need to see your dentist for short-term solutions.