Tooth pain is your body’s way of sending a message, and the type of pain you feel can often give you some clues about what’s wrong. Whether you’re experiencing sharp, throbbing, or temperature-sensitive discomfort, your teeth are trying to tell you something! But what could it be? Continue reading to learn how to decode the language of tooth pain and discover what it might mean for your oral health.
Sharp, Shooting Tooth Pain
A sudden, sharp pain when biting or chewing could indicate a cracked tooth, a cavity, or even an old filling that’s failing. This pain generally happens when pressure is applied to a weakened area of your smile. Sometimes it can come and go before eventually becoming constant.
If you feel this type of pain, your tooth structure may be compromised. Without treatment, the damage could worsen, leading to infection or even tooth loss! So, schedule a dental visit as soon as possible to get a checkup and repair the damage.
Throbbing or Pulsing Pain
Throbbing tooth pain is often a sign of an infection or abscess. The throbbing sensation may be from increased pressure in and around your teeth, disrupting the normal flow. This pain is usually accompanied by swelling, redness in your gums, or a foul taste in your mouth.
If you suspect you may have an infection, you’ll need immediate attention. Acting quickly and seeing your dentist is the only way to stop it from spreading and restore health to your teeth. However, if you start to feel feverish, lethargic, or the swelling gets worse, go to your local ER instead.
Sensitivity to Heat and Cold
If your teeth hurt after sipping hot coffee or eating ice cream, it’s likely due to exposed dentin. This is the underlying layer of your tooth that sist below the surface of your enamel. Wear, cavities, or gum recession can allow extreme temperatures to be carried through the dentin and into the pulp where all the nerves are.
If you believe sensitivity is to blame for your tooth pain, you can first use a toothpaste designed for sensitivity. Visit your dentist If there’s no change within a couple of weeks. At this appointment, they can discuss other potential causes like grinding, erosion, or gum disease.
Tooth pain is your body’s way of telling you that something needs attention. While some types of discomfort are mild and temporary, others could point to serious dental issues. Either way, don’t ignore the signs! Taking care of any discomfort in your teeth early can help mitigate the effects and help you find relief before it worsens.
About the Author
If you’re struggling with tooth pain in Plano, Dr. Sam Antoon has the experience and technology to help you find relief. He received his dental doctorate from the Southern Illinois University’s School of Dental Medicine. Today, he’s been serving his community for over twenty years, helping countless patients with dental dilemmas large and small. Call (972) 640-6229 to schedule an emergency appointment at Antoon Family Dental or visit our website to explore our services.