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A few days ago, one of your teeth started to ache. Though the pain has been severe, you figure you can just wait it out rather than seek treatment. Though some forms of tooth pain are nothing to worry about, others may be a sign that there is something seriously wrong. Read on to learn about six kinds of tooth pain that will require treatment from your emergency dentist.
Type #1: Frequent Sensitivity
If your tooth frequently feels more sensitive than it used to when you consume hot or cold foods and beverages, it’s time to make an appointment with your dentist. While some patients experience tooth sensitivity due to genetic or outside factors, this kind of discomfort often results from clenching or grinding the teeth, eroded enamel, or decay.
Type #2: Consistent Discomfort
Experiencing some discomfort after you undergo a dental procedure is normal, but consistent discomfort that stems from the mouth without a known cause shouldn’t be ignored. It may indicate that your teeth are shifting, you have an impacted wisdom tooth, or you have a cavity.
Type #3: Sharp, Stabbing Pain
Sharp, stabbing pain in one of your teeth could indicate that you have a cavity or a tooth infection. Leaving these issues untreated will allow the condition to worsen, which may lead to gum disease or even tooth loss.
Type #4: Throbbing Pain
Constant, throbbing pain or pulsating discomfort that gradually worsens can make it difficult to concentrate on anything else. This is often caused by an infection deep in the tooth and may require a root canal to treat it and prevent it from spreading to surrounding tissues. Even if the pain subsides after a few days, you should still see your emergency dentist right away to avoid having the tooth extracted.
Type #5. Pain When Biting
Pain from putting pressure on a tooth when biting or chewing can be caused by several issues, including a dental abscess. This is a pocket of pus that can form in a tooth, in the gums, or in the bone that holds the teeth in place that’s caused by an infection. The pain may also be caused by a fracture, which may not be visible without a visit to your dentist. Prompt treatment can help you prevent the tooth from breaking or otherwise becoming more damaged than it already is.
Type #6: Pain in the Back of the Mouth
Pain in the mouth can also make the teeth hurt. If the discomfort originates from the back of the mouth, it may be caused by TMJ disorder (TMD). When the joint that connects your jaw to your skull, the temporomandibular joint, doesn’t function properly or is inflamed, this can cause oral pain.
If you are experiencing any of the above forms of tooth pain, reach out to your dentist as soon as possible. They’ll be able to find the source of your discomfort and administer treatment so your smile will be as healthy as ever!
About the Author
Led by Dr. Amy Farrell and Dr. Krunal Patel, the talented team at NeoSmile Dental Care has patient care as their top priority. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, they can get to the root of the problem and treat it as soon as possible. Before you know it, your smile will be pain free! Visit NeoSmile Dental Care’s website or call (215) 643-5220 for more information on types of toothaches or to schedule an appointment.
