A toothache may be common, but that does not make it any more bearable. It can come on slowly or suddenly and have a serious impact on your everyday life, affecting your daily activities and sleep. The pain and discomfort of a toothache can be disarming, sometimes making you feel helpless. However, it is not necessary to suffer from common tooth pain. You just need to answer two simple questions:
- When does it hurt? – does something specific trigger the pain? Is it there all the time? Does it get worse with heat or cold?
- Where does it hurt? – a single tooth, right through your jaw, in your gums? Is the pain radiating elsewhere in your face?
Answering these questions will help you and your dentist to identify the cause of the problem. It is vital not to ignore a toothache. If the pain is caused by a problem such as tooth decay or an abscess then it can get worse if left untreated. Although a toothache is rarely life-threatening, it can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem that needs immediate attention.
Symptoms and causes of tooth pain.
Not all toothaches present the same discomfort. It may be consistent or come and go. It may be a dull ache or sharp pain. Everyone experiences tooth pain slightly differently, and various tooth problems will cause different symptoms. However, there are a number of symptoms to look out for:
- Pain – this can be dull, constant, intermittent, sharp, throbbing, or only appear under certain conditions.
- Sensitivity – to heat or cold.
- Swelling – around the tooth, gums, or jaw.
- Blood or pus – being discharged from the tooth area (may be foul-tasting)
- Trauma or injury – to your tooth, gums, or jaw.
There several reasons why you may have developed tooth pain and it is recommended that you see a professional to find the cause of the problem. Some common causes of tooth pain are:
- Tooth decay
- Trauma or injury
- An abscessed tooth or tooth infection
- Damage to a filling or a filling/crown has fallen out
- Gum infection or gum recession
- Worn tooth enamel
- Regular grinding of your teeth
- Something stuck in your gums
To try and avoid developing problems with your teeth it is important to visit your dentist regularly. Carry out a thorough tooth hygiene regime at home including regular brushing and flossing, to ensure your teeth stay healthy. If you do develop tooth pain, do not ignore it, and make an emergency appointment with your dentist right away.
If you are in need of a dentist, Ascent Dental is accepting new patients. We work with the latest technology and are here to support you with all your dental needs. Serving Cherry Creek and Denver, Colorado, you can call us on (303) 975-6987 or fill out a contact form here.
