What Are The Common Causes of Tooth Pain?

There are many different causes of tooth pain, and all of them are serious. Constant, throbbing pain could indicate an abscess or infection. Pain from pressure while chewing might be from a broken tooth, a damaged filling, or habitual teeth grinding. If you are experiencing tooth pain, call Sunrise Dental in Glendale, Arizona. We will schedule an examination for the same day if possible, so you can get the treatment you need.

Common Causes of Tooth Pain

Decay

The most common cause of tooth pain is tooth decay. Pain from cavities is not very severe, and may be just a passing sensitivity. However, cavities can turn into abscesses and become extremely painful if left untreated. It’s important to schedule regular cleanings so that we can spot cavities early on. Sunrise Dental uses advanced air abrasion techniques that can remove small cavities painlessly, without anesthesia.

Fracture 

Tooth fractures from injury or wear are always a dental emergency. Cracked, chipped, or broken teeth should be treated as soon as possible. When the hard exterior of a tooth cracks, the pieces of the tooth shift as you chew and cause permanent internal damage. Lost or damaged fillings must also be treated right away. Losing a filling can cause tooth fractures, abscesses, and other serious conditions. If you crack a tooth or lose a filling, don’t panic—call Sunrise Dental and we will schedule an emergency examination.

Abscess

When an infection spreads to the inside of a tooth or the gums that surround and support a tooth, it can form an abscess. This extremely painful condition is a dental emergency that requires urgent treatment. Symptoms of an abscessed tooth include pain when chewing, facial swelling, and fever. If you also have a red, swollen blister on your gums that bleeds or oozes pus, you probably have an abscess. You will need antibiotics to stop the infection, followed by a root canal or tooth extraction.

Bruxism

Because the majority of teeth grinding happens during sleep, you might not be aware of the problem until your dentist spots the signs during an examination. Bruxism, a condition in which you unconsciously grind your teeth and clench your jaw, can cause serious dental damage. It harms your enamel, causes fractures and breakage, and can even cause tooth loss in severe cases. If you are experiencing tooth and jaw pain, sleeplessness, headaches or facial pain, you might have bruxism.

Gingivitis

Tooth pain combined with gum pain, or painful teeth that also feel loose could indicate gingivitis. Nearly 50% of Americans suffer from some form of gum disease, mostly due to poor oral hygiene habits. Gingivitis weakens your gums and makes them pull away from your teeth, exposing sensitive areas that are not protected with enamel. Unless it is detected and treated, gingivitis will progress into periodontitis and eventually lead to tooth loss. Neglecting your dental health causes serious problems, so make sure to schedule professional dental cleanings at least twice a year.

Contact Us

If you are experiencing tooth pain, contact Sunrise Dental in Glendale right away! We always strive to offer same-day appointments for dental emergencies. Our friendly dentists will find the causes of your tooth pain and recommend the best treatments for your oral health. Contact us to learn more about our dental services or to schedule an appointment with our talented and attentive team. 

Photo by Christian Erfurt on Unsplash