It can be scary and overwhelming if you’re experiencing tooth pain. But, whether it’s a sudden, sharp pain or a constant ache, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. In some cases, tooth pain may be an emergency that requires immediate attention from a dental professional. In this blog post, we’ll go over how to diagnose the cause of your teeth pain and what you can do to find relief.
Identify the source of tooth pain
The first step in diagnosing teeth pain is identifying the location and type of pain you’re experiencing. Is the pain in one specific tooth, or is it spread across multiple teeth? Is the pain constant or intermittent? Answering these questions can help you, and your dental professional determine the cause of the pain.
Cavities in your teeth
One common cause of tooth pain is a cavity. Cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth that produce acid, which eats away at the enamel on your teeth. If you have a cavity, you may experience pain when biting down on food or drinking cold or hot beverages. Cavities can often be treated with a filling, in which a dental professional removes the decayed portion of the tooth and fills the hole with a composite material.
Cracked or chipped tooth
Another cause of teeth pain is a cracked or chipped tooth. If you bite down on something hard or grind your teeth at night, this can happen. A cracked tooth can be very painful, especially when biting down or chewing. Depending on the severity of the crack, your dental professional may be able to repair it with a filling or crown.
Toothaches
Toothaches can also be caused by gum disease, an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen gums that bleed easily, bad breath, and loose teeth. Gum disease can be treated with a deep cleaning, during which a dental professional removes the plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums.
Tooth infections
You may experience severe pain, swelling, and fever if you have a tooth infection. A tooth infection is caused by bacteria that have entered the pulp of the tooth, which can be very dangerous if left untreated. A tooth infection is typically treated with a root canal, where the infected pulp is removed and the tooth is sealed.
Take medication to manage pain
If you’re experiencing teeth pain and are unsure of the cause, it’s important to see a dental professional as soon as possible. They will be able to diagnose the cause of the pain and provide appropriate treatment. In the meantime, you can take over-the-counter pain medication to help manage the pain and rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation.
If you’re having a dental emergency, such as a severe toothache or a knocked-out tooth, it’s important to seek immediate attention from a dental professional. They will be able to provide the necessary treatment to alleviate your pain and prevent further damage to your teeth and gums.
In conclusion, if you’re experiencing tooth pain, it’s important to identify the location and type of pain you’re experiencing and seek treatment from a dental professional as soon as possible. By addressing the issue quickly, you can prevent further damage to your teeth and gums and relieve your pain.
