Different Types of Tooth Pain and What They Mean

Nothing is worse than a toothache. While you might believe it’s normal to have one occasionally, it’s never a good sign. It often indicates a larger issue that needs to be treated before it turns into a bigger problem. Although you might view all discomfort the same, you can tell a lot about the potential cause of your pain depending on what you’re experiencing. Here are the most common types of tooth pain in Houston and how you can relieve your discomfort.

Sensitivity to Temperature

When sipping a hot cup of coffee or biting into a cold ice cream cone, does a twinge of pain make you pucker your lips? Tooth sensitivity can be caused by several issues, like weakened enamel, gum recession, or untreated tooth decay. While your discomfort may only last for a few seconds, it’s important to have the underlying problem addressed.

While you wait for your appointment, you can try using a sensitivity toothpaste. Your dentist will perform a comprehensive consultation to determine the exact cause to create a customized treatment plan.

Dull and Persistent Toothache

A dull, persistent ache is the most common type of pain. The discomfort can come and go, sometimes in waves. It’s essential you pay attention to where exactly it’s located and what triggers it.

There can be several reasons for your pain. In some cases, the answer may be as simple as having food stuck between your teeth. Floss can relieve your discomfort. Other times, the issue might be more complex, like from the pressure of grinding your teeth, which can be treated with a mouthguard.

Sharp, Jabbing Pain

A sharp pain often indicates there’s a serious problem that won’t go away on its own, like a worn filling or loose crown. It can often occur when placing pressure on a tooth, such as from an untreated fracture or cavity. While it might not seem alarming, it could lead to an unexpected visit to your emergency dentist in Houston if you don’t have it treated quickly.

Severe, Throbbing Pain

A serious toothache can be impossible to ignore. Unfortunately, it’s often a sign of an infection. You might notice other symptoms as well, like swelling of the gum tissue, a pimple-like bump appearing near the tooth, or discoloration of the gingival tissue. If the infection it’s treated right away, it can spread deeper into your oral structures.

Your dentist will likely recommend a root canal to stop your pain and save your tooth. The endodontic procedure extracts the pulp. A dental crown is often placed over the tooth to restore its strength, function, and appearance.

Stop Your Toothache

Don’t let a toothache interrupt your day. Visit your dentist to get to the root cause of the problem to save your smile.

About Dr. Mark Gray

Dr. Mark Gray has provided comprehensive dental services to the community since the 1980s. He uses the latest innovations to create healthy, functional, and beautiful smiles. Dr. Gray believes in always being there for his patients, even during dental emergencies. If you have a toothache, don’t wait. Contact our office today for an appointment.