Experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity can be uncomfortable. These conditions can affect anyone, regardless of age or health. By understanding what causes these issues, we can take steps to prevent them or seek appropriate treatment for complete family dental care.
Tooth Pain – What Is It?
Tooth pain is a feeling of discomfort in your tooth or teeth. Sometimes, it’s just a little ache. Other times, it can be a sharp pain. You might feel this pain all the time. Or, it might come and go. Why does your tooth hurt? Here are some common reasons.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is the primary cause of tooth pain. It occurs when harmful bacteria in the mouth feed on leftover food particles, producing acids that eat away at the tooth enamel. Over time, this process creates a hole or cavity in the tooth, leading to discomfort and pain.
Gum Disease
Toothache is sometimes caused by gum disease. Plaque causes gum irritation and infection. Bad breath and swollen, bleeding gums are symptoms. Untreated gum disease can pull the gums away from the teeth, creating pockets that contain germs and worsen the infection.
Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess is a severe and life-threatening condition. It happens when a bacterial infection develops at the tooth’s root or in the space between the tooth and gum. The primary symptom is intense, throbbing pain that may radiate to the jawbone, neck, or ear. Other signs include sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, fever, facial or cheek swelling, and tender, swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or neck.
Tooth Fracture
A fractured tooth can cause sharp, intense pain. Fractures can occur due to a fall, a sports injury, or biting down on a hard substance. The pain may be continuous or occur only when you eat or drink something hot, cold, or sweet.
Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth, or dentin hypersensitivity, can cause tooth pain. This condition occurs with a sharp, sudden pain that shoots deep into the nerve endings of your teeth. Usually triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or very acidic foods and drinks or even a cold wind against your teeth.
Tooth Sensitivity – What Is It?
Now, let’s talk about tooth sensitivity. This is when your teeth hurt because of certain things. These things can be hot or cold food and drinks. Or even when you brush your teeth. That’s called tooth sensitivity.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is often tied to various factors:
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay, as mentioned earlier, can also lead to sensitivity. Cavities expose the tooth’s inner layers, causing discomfort when eating or drinking.
Gum Recession
When gums recede, the root surface is exposed. Roots have nerve centres that respond to hot and cold stimuli, causing sensitivity.
Tooth Grinding
Tooth grinding, or bruxism, often happens during sleep or times of stress. The constant pressure and friction can wear down the tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity and pain.
Whitening Products
Whitening products can sometimes lead to tooth sensitivity. Many of these products contain harsh chemicals that can wear away at the tooth enamel.
Acidic Foods
Foods high in acid, like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and soda, can erode tooth enamel over time, leading to increased sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
Tooth pain and sensitivity are common dental issues that can result from various causes, from tooth decay to lifestyle habits. Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist can prevent many of these conditions. But if you’re experiencing persistent tooth pain or sensitivity. It’s crucial to seek professional dental care.
