Tooth ache can be hugely uncomfortable, and if you’re experiencing tooth discomfort, it’s important to get this looked at by your dentist.

Tooth pain can mean there is something wrong with your teeth, therefore it’s best to address the problem as soon as possible to prevent the pain or issue from getting any worse.

So why could your teeth be hurting?

Tooth Sensitivity

Many people suffer from sensitive teeth, and this sensitivity is more likely to be felt after drinking or eating something very cold and sometimes very hot. For some people, this pain can be a mild twinge that lasts for only a minute while for others, they may feel severe discomfort that can continue for a longer period of time.

Tooth sensitivity is usually due to the enamel, the protective layer on your teeth, becoming thinner. If you have tried treating your sensitive teeth and seen no improvement, it’s advised that you visit your dentist to ensure your teeth and smile remain healthy.

Cracked/damaged teeth

Whilst minor injuries to teeth don’t usually cause pain or discomfort, if a large piece of your tooth cracks or breaks off, it can hurt. This is because the nerve inside of your tooth may be damaged. Pain from a broken or cracked tooth may come and go, but also pain may be felt when chewing due to damage being put on the tooth.

Any type of damage to your teeth should be checked out by your dentist as soon as possible, to avoid any further discomfort or damage from occurring.

Dental Abscess

An abscess is caused by a bacterial infection in your mouth, and is a collection of pus that can form inside the teeth, gums or even in the jawbone. An abscess can lead to serious infection if left untreated.

If you believe you have a dental abscess, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the infection, possible treatments include:

• Root canal treatment
• Tooth extraction
• Drainage 

Tooth infections can be very uncomfortable and disruptive which is why good oral hygiene is so important, to ensure problems like an abscess don’t occur.

Gum Disease

This is another common condition amongst adults and children, where the gums become swollen, sore or even infected. This is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth which then irritates your gums. 

If left untreated, it can lead to further complications including gum abscesses, receding gums, loose and even loss of teeth.

Whilst gum disease is common, if you are experiencing persistent pain, swelling or bleeding from your gums, you should make an appointment with your dentist to check the health of your gums.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is damage to the tooth which is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth. If plaque builds up, it can lead to problems such as holes in the teeth and gum disease. Plaque damaging the teeth can lead to sensitivity that may get progressively worse over time. However, if the plaque damage leaves holes in the teeth or even the decay reaches the centre of the tooth, the nerves can be affected causing toothache and infection.

No matter the cause, your dentist will always be able to help treat your toothache. If you are experiencing toothache, seek advice and treatment as soon as possible to ensure you are always smiling pain-free.

If you are experiencing toothache, or have questions around dental health, please contact us today to speak to one of our team & to organise an appointment.

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