Understanding Tooth Pain: Common Causes and Treatments
Maybe you feel a dull, throbbing pain in your mouth. Sometimes, the pain worsens when you bite on something or when you drink something cold. Toothaches come in many shapes and sizes, but they have one thing in common—it’s a sign something is wrong and you need to see a dentist.
Eckland Family Dental understands that tooth pain is no laughing matter. Whatever form your toothache takes, it makes it nearly impossible to focus on your day. Dr. Kale Eckland and the team offer dental pain treatments in the Redmond and Everett areas to ensure you live a painless lifestyle.
Different types of tooth pain
A toothache is a toothache, right? Not quite! Not all toothaches are the same. Your toothache can be a dull, consistent, and sometimes a sharp, jabbing ache. It can sometimes be severe and throbbing or manifest as sensitivity to hot and cold pains.
Even though a toothache isn’t pleasant, it’s a good sign of letting you know your smile needs attention. Several factors, ranging from mild to severe, can cause toothaches, and your dentist is best suited to pinpoint the exact cause for a long-lasting solution.
Causes of tooth pain
All toothaches have an origin. If you have a toothache, the following are the possible causes.
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Dental trauma
- Tooth infection (abscess)
- Tooth impaction
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Receding gums
- Failing dental work
As you can see, several factors can cause tooth pain, and sometimes pinpointing the exact cause can be a challenge. Occasionally, the pain can radiate from the ears, sinuses, or jaw. Because of these intricacies, the best thing is to schedule an appointment with a dentist for a proper diagnosis.
How we treat toothaches
Even if your tooth pain subsides, it doesn’t mean the issue has resolved itself. Toothaches often return, sometimes more intensely. More importantly, tooth pain can indicate a more serious underlying problem; ignoring it can lead to irreversible damage.
If you experience a toothache that recurs, becomes intolerable, or doesn’t respond to home remedies, schedule an appointment with Dr. Eckland and the team. When you arrive at our office, we’ll get you the necessary treatment to prevent unnecessary pain.
Depending on the root cause of your tooth pain, treatment options include:
- Standard cleanings to remove hardened deposits
- Composite fillings for minor tooth decay
- Root canals for infected teeth
- Dental extractions for teeth beyond saving
- Medications to manage pain and infections
Frequently Asked Questions About Toothaches & Oral Pain
Can a toothache go away on its own?
Sometimes mild tooth pain may subside if caused by temporary irritation, such as sensitivity from hot or cold foods. However, persistent toothaches usually indicate a deeper issue, like decay, infection, or gum disease. Ignoring a toothache can lead to more severe problems, including abscesses or tooth loss. Dr. Eckland recommends scheduling an exam as soon as possible to determine the cause and prevent further complications.
What does it mean if my toothache comes and goes?
Intermittent tooth pain could indicate an underlying issue, such as a small cavity, a cracked tooth, or sinus-related pressure. The pain may temporarily subside, but that doesn’t mean the problem is resolved. Over time, the condition may worsen and require more extensive treatment. Dr. Eckland can identify the cause of the pain and recommend appropriate care to prevent long-term damage or more serious infections.
Why do I have a toothache if I don’t have any cavities?
Cavities don’t always cause toothaches. Other potential causes include gum recession, enamel erosion, bruxism (teeth grinding), sinus infections, or nerve irritation. Sometimes, an abscess or deep infection can cause pain even if the tooth appears intact. If necessary, Dr. Eckland will evaluate your symptoms, take X-rays, and determine the best course to relieve your discomfort and address the root cause.
Can stress cause tooth pain?
Yes, stress can contribute to oral pain. When stressed, many people grind or clench their teeth (bruxism), which can lead to tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, and even cracked teeth. Additionally, stress may weaken the immune system, making you more prone to gum infections or inflammation. If you experience jaw tightness or toothaches during stressful periods, Dr. Eckland can recommend solutions, such as a nightguard or relaxation techniques, to protect your teeth.
What should I do if my toothache is severe but I can’t see a dentist immediately?
Try rinsing with warm salt water, taking over-the-counter painkillers, and using a cold compress to minimize swelling if you have significant tooth pain and are unable to see Dr. Eckland right away. Avoid chewing on the affected side and stick to soft foods. However, these are only temporary solutions. A severe toothache may indicate an infection or abscess, which requires prompt, professional treatment to prevent complications.
Why does my tooth hurt when I eat sweet foods?
Pain when eating sweets can be a sign of enamel erosion or an early cavity. When enamel wears down, the sensitive inner layers of the tooth are exposed, making it easier for sugar to trigger discomfort. It can also indicate small cracks in the tooth or gum recession, exposing the roots. Dr. Eckland can assess your teeth to determine if you need a filling, fluoride treatment, or other preventive measures.
Can a toothache be a sign of something serious?
Yes, a persistent or severe toothache could indicate an abscessed tooth, a serious infection that can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Other serious conditions include gum disease, nerve damage, or even referred pain from sinus issues or TMJ disorders. Dr. Eckland strongly recommends seeking dental care at the first sign of ongoing pain to prevent potential health risks and avoid more invasive treatments.
End your toothache today: Schedule your pain relief appointment!
Are you tired of dealing with a toothache? Take control of your dental health today! For immediate pain relief, schedule your appointment at one of our easily accessible locations in Redmond (425) 448-6339 or Everett (425) 249-3830.
