Types of Tooth Pain: When to Set an Appointment with Your Dentist

Tooth pain is often the result of an infection or a trauma that triggers an adverse reaction from the nerves inside a tooth’s pulp chamber. The pain’s duration and severity will depend on the underlying cause, which may include anything from an abscess to a loose filling. Ignoring a painful tooth may not only lead to excruciating physical pain, but also to more expensive dental treatments as oral conditions deteriorate. Make an appointment with your dentist if the following symptoms present themselves:

Sharp Pain When You Bite Down on Food

This type of tooth pain may indicate a loose filling, decay, or a cracked tooth. A dentist can quickly replace a loose filling and remove the decayed part of the tooth, but if the tooth is cracked, your dentist will have to determine the depth of the crack, and formulate a treatment plan for it. A root canal or tooth extraction may be recommended.

Swelling, Gum Sensitivity, and Constant Severe Pain and Pressure

Infections and/or abscesses may have spread from the tooth pulp into the surrounding bone and tissues, causing this type of pain. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen may help relieve the pain and minimize symptoms until you are treated. A root canal may be necessary.

Dull, Lingering Pain After Eating Hot or Cold Foods

Mild tooth sensitivity that lasts under a minute can often be soothed by brushing with toothpaste made especially for sensitive teeth. However, an inflamed or dying tooth pulp due to severe decay could cause pain that lingers long after the intake of hot or cold foods. If this is the case, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth.

Throbbing Pain on One or Both Sides of the Upper Teeth Region

The upper back teeth and the sinuses share the same nerves. That’s why oftentimes, pain from the sinus region can feel like a toothache, even if it’s not. A thorough examination by a capable dentist can help you identify whether or not the pain is dental-related.

Quality Dental Treatment in Denver, Co

If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait for the pain to get worse. Call a trusted Denver dentist like Cody Dental Group and schedule a diagnostic check-up and treatment. If a tooth extraction or root canal is necessary, you might want to discuss the possibility of wearing dental implants to restore your tooth’s form and function.

Sources:

Tooth Pain, American Association of Endodontists
Questions About Going to the Dentist, American Dental Association