Tooth pain can range from mildly annoying to debilitating, impacting your ability to eat, speak, and even concentrate. At Advanced Dental Professionals in Rapid City, our experienced team, led by our dentists Dr. Aaron Studer and Dr. Shaun Lemmon, encounters a variety of causes of tooth pain in our patients. Understanding these causes is an important first step towards effective treatment and relief. Here are some of the most common culprits behind tooth pain:
1. Tooth Decay
The leading cause of tooth pain is tooth decay. When plaque builds up on your teeth, the bacteria produce acids that erode the tooth enamel. Over time, this can create cavities, which are small holes in the hard surface of the teeth. As the decay works its way deeper into the tooth, it can cause pain, especially when the decay reaches the more sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
2. Gum Disease
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, occurs when the gums become infected and inflamed. In its early stage, known as gingivitis, gum disease may not be painful. However, as the condition progresses to more severe forms like periodontitis, the gums can pull away from the teeth, leaving parts of the roots exposed and causing sensitivity and discomfort.
3. Tooth Abscess
An abscessed tooth is a severe and painful infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum tissue and a tooth. It is usually caused by severe tooth decay, gum disease, or a broken tooth that allows bacteria to enter the pulp. The pain is typically persistent, severe, and can radiate to the jaw or neck. Abscesses typically require root canal therapy in order to save the tooth.
4. Cracked or Fractured Teeth
Teeth can crack from an injury, grinding, or biting on something hard. Cracked teeth can cause pain that comes and goes as the tooth flexes when biting down and opens up, allowing substances to reach the nerves inside the tooth. Identifying a cracked tooth can be difficult, but with modern dental technology, our dentists can help diagnose and treat it.
5. Sensitive Teeth
If experiencing sharp pains when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or very acidic foods and drinks, you might have sensitive teeth. This can occur after dental treatment, but it’s also caused by worn tooth enamel or exposed dental roots. Sometimes, tooth discomfort is caused by other factors, such as a sinus infection or even stress.
6. Orthodontic Alignment
Braces, retainers, and other dental alignment systems might be necessary for correcting misaligned teeth, but they can also cause discomfort, especially right after they are adjusted. This pain usually diminishes after the teeth adjust to the new alignment.
7. Improper Brushing or Flossing
Sometimes, tooth pain results from aggressive brushing or flossing techniques. Many people don’t realize that you’re not supposed to snap the floss directly onto your gums. These practices can irritate the gums and lead to sensitivity in the teeth. A safer and more effective technique is to curve the floss around one tooth in a C-shape and work it gently down towards the gums and slightly under them on one side, then on the other side. This method is much less likely to cause bleeding or irritation, and it will do a much more effective job of cleaning.
8. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ)
TMJ disorders affect the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. Misalignment of this joint can lead to pain that may be felt in the teeth, jaw, face, or neck. The dentist can check for signs of TMJ problems and recommend solutions.
How We Can Help
At Advanced Dental Professionals, Dr. Aaron Studer and Dr. Shaun Lemmon emphasize a preventive approach to dental health to mitigate these common causes of tooth pain. Regular dental check-ups allow us to catch issues before they develop into severe problems. We also provide personalized advice on proper dental hygiene practices and recommend treatments tailored to your specific needs.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, don’t wait for it to worsen. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care in a welcoming environment, ensuring that every visit is a step towards maintaining your oral health and alleviating discomfort.
Addressing the root cause of your tooth pain is crucial for effective treatment. By understanding these common causes, you can better identify when it’s time to seek professional help. Remember, prompt treatment not only relieves pain but also often results in better outcomes for your dental health. Visit Advanced Dental Professionals in Rapid City for expert care and relief from tooth pain.
