Most of us have experience tooth pain at one point or another. Sometimes it is so bothersome that can be difficult to go throughout your day as normal. It’s easy to jump to conclusions and think that you’re in need of a root canal, but this isn’t always the case. Pain in the mouth can mean a number of different things and have numerous solutions like fillings or crowns in State College. Continue reading to learn more about what your pain means and what a likely solution may be.
Temperature Sensitivity
Often times, the main culprit of tooth pain is temperature sensitivity. This is usually caused by worn down enamel or gum recission, both exposing areas of the tooth that are more sensitive. In this case, whenever you consume something particularly hot or cold, you are likely to feel some minor pain that fades fairly quickly. Many people can get relief by switching to a toothpaste that is made specifically for people who have sensitive teeth. After a few weeks, you are likely to notice a difference.
Dull and Persistent Pain
This type of pain that lingers without going away can be caused by multiple different issues. It is possible that something could be stuck between the teeth or in the gums. This can often be solved with thorough flossing. If the pain is reaching back to the jaw, this could be caused by bruxism, also known as teeth grinding. In this situation, your dentist may suggest that you use a nightguard. When this dull pain is truly constant and doesn’t go away, this could indicate an abscessed tooth, which is often treatable with a root canal in State College.
Jabbing Pain
A sharp or jabbing pain is usually something that won’t go away on its own. Most of the time, this is a result of some sort of physical tooth injury like a crack or cavity. It could also be a sign that a filling has become loose or a crown has fallen off. Either way, seeing your dentist as soon as possible can prevent the issue from becoming much more serious.
Intense Throbbing Pain
If your pain is accompanied by swelling of the gum or face, this could be a sign of a serious infection that must be treated by a medical professional immediately. Other signs of infection are gum discoloration, bleeding gums, and pain when chewing. Generally, this happens when bacteria reach the pulp inside of the tooth, the gums, or the bone surrounding the tooth. When left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the body, including vital organs, and become life threatening!
The best way to determine the probable solution to your pain is to first decipher the type of discomfort you are feeling. Ultimately, no matter what type of pain you are experiencing, the best thing you can do is talk to your dentist. With their help, you can get to the root of the problem.
About the Author
Dr. Kevin Labosky has been working in the dental field for more than two decades. He earned his DMD from Temple University School of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education each year. Dr. Labosky holds membership with the American Dental Association, Pennsylvania Dental Association, and Centre Dental Society. If you are experiencing tooth pain, he would be happy to help you get some relief. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (814) 237-7004.
