Tooth pain is never pleasant and can vary in its intensity, ranging from a mild sensation to a constant and throbbing pain. The reason why you feel pain is due to the pulp chamber right at the center of your tooth becoming infected or inflamed. As a result the nerves contained in the pulp chamber are stimulated, causing tooth pain to let you know that something isn’t quite right.
Learn what can cause a toothache and how you can treat and prevent it.
Tooth Pain Caused by Tooth Decay
If you have untreated cavities in your teeth then it’s likely that bacteria in the mouth have managed to penetrate the dentin layer. (Learn why filling cavities is important when treating tooth decay). This consists of lots of tiny tubules that lead directly to the pulp, resulting in these nerves becoming stimulated.
Tooth Enamel Erosion
If you have a highly acidic diet or if you snack frequently on acidic foods then this can gradually eat away at your tooth enamel. You get the same effect if you eat a diet that is very high in sugary foods, as bacteria feed on these foods creating acid. People with acid reflux or who frequently vomit are also more at risk of having tooth enamel erosion.
Receding Gums
If your gums have receded then it can expose your tooth roots. These roots are not protected with tooth enamel, but instead have a layer of what’s called cementum over them which is easily worn away. When tooth roots are exposed, you’re more likely to feel sensitivity or pain in your teeth.
Recent Fillings or Other Dental Work
If you have recently had some dental work then it does take a bit of time for your teeth to settle back down. However if this discomfort persists then please make an appointment to come and see us here at the Cosmetic Dentistry Center. There will be something we can do to help and it could be that a filling or crown is just slightly too high.
Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Teeth that are chipped or cracked can let in bacteria, starting the process of tooth decay. Even a tiny crack can open up whenever you bite down on the tooth, exposing the inner part of the tooth to bacteria. This is why it’s always important to make sure you get any tooth cracks or chips mended as soon as you can.
Teeth Grinding and Clenching
This habit is called bruxism and it can create a lot of pressure on your teeth, wearing them down and chipping and fracturing them, and in the worst case it can cause tooth loss. If you have painful teeth that look slightly shorter than before or if you wake up with an aching jaw in the morning, it’s worth coming to see us. Bruxism is a nocturnal habit that is often easily treated by wearing a night splint that will prevent your teeth from contacting.
Sinus Problems
Sometimes the pain in your teeth may not be dental related. For example having congested sinuses or an infection can affect your teeth. (Read also: Sinus Infection: It May Be the True Cause of Your Toothache).
Leaky Fillings and Crowns
All types of dental restorations have a limited life and need replacing periodically. If you know you have lost a filling then it’s worth scheduling an appointment to get it replaced as soon as possible as otherwise bacteria can get into your tooth causing decay and infection, and of course tooth pain.
Dental pain is always a sign that something is wrong, so please don’t put up with it. Make an appointment to come and see us here at the Cosmetic Dentistry Center.
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