There are many reasons you may be experiencing tooth pain. These reasons range from minor problems to major problems that require emergency dental care. To make tooth pain more complicated, the severity of the pain does not necessarily determine how minor or major the problem is. The only way to know for sure is to visit your dentist. Dr. Paul Karpovich is an expert dentist that helps patients treat their tooth pain in Timonium, MD.
What Causes Tooth Pain?
Tooth pain or a toothache can come on slowly or strike suddenly. It can vary from a dull, achy pain to sharp shooting pain. This is because the causes of toot pain vary greatly. Below is a list of common conditions that can cause pain in your tooth:
Periodontal Disease
Even though the disease is located in your gums, when left untreated it can spread to the connective tissue and jaw bone. This can lead to inflammation and pain that can cause a toothache.
Tooth Decay (dental cavity)
A tooth cavity that you ignore will grow deeper and wider. Eventually, the inner layer of the tooth is exposed. This will create a great deal of sensitivity and pain for that tooth. This is the most common reason for tooth pain.
Sensitive Teeth
There are many reasons your tooth may be sensitive. A tooth cavity, enamel erosion, teeth grinding, gum disease, and receding gums are just a few.
Teeth Grinding
Constantly grinding your teeth can lead to a toothache in any of the affected teeth. This activity damages the teeth by wearing them down or even creating chips and cracks in them.
Trauma to the Tooth
Any hard hit to the mouth can lead to pain in a tooth. This can be from a ball if you participate in sports or from a car accident.
Tooth Infection
An infection in the tooth is caused when bacteria is able to enter the inner chamber of the tooth where the nerve endings are located. This can be very painful and will require treatment as soon as possible.
Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess will form if a tooth infection is not treated right away. This condition is extremely painful and can even be life threatening. It creates a lot of swelling around the tooth and even the face. Most people know when they have an abscess due to the extreme amount tooth pain they have. A tooth abscess is considered a dental emergency.
Damaged Dental Restoration
A damaged dental filling or tooth crown can expose the most sensitive parts of a tooth. It can also allow bacteria to enter the tooth which can lead to a painful infection.
Treatment for Tooth Pain in Timonium, MD
Dr. Karpovich will suggest treatment based on what is causing your tooth pain. Common treatments we offer include:
- Periodontal Disease Treatment
- Dental Crown
- Tooth Extraction
- Dental Bonding
- Custom Mouthguards
- Dental Filling
- Root Canal
Tooth Pain FAQs
Learn more about tooth pain treatment in Timonium, MD, with answers to these common patient questions:
What can I do at home to treat tooth pain?
If you have tooth pain, you can rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation and clean the area. You can also place a cold compress on the outside of your cheek near the painful tooth to help numb the area. Over-the-counter pain medications can also help to relieve the pain. If the pain persists or gets worse, see our dentist for further treatment.
When should I visit my dentist for tooth pain?
It may be hard for you to gauge when you should reach out for medical help when pain in your tooth is involved. However, the only way to know for sure if the problem is serious or not is to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
If over-the-counter pain medication does not work, or if the pain lasts more than two days, you call your dentist. Definitely call us if the pain is accompanied by ear pain, fever, swelling, or difficulty opening and closing your mouth. This can be a sign of a dental emergency.
Why does gum disease cause tooth pain?
Gum disease can cause tooth pain because it leads to inflammation and infection around the teeth and gums. When plaque builds up on the teeth, it can irritate the gums and cause them to become swollen and tender. As the gum disease progresses, it can cause the gums to recede, exposing the sensitive roots of the teeth. This can lead to increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, and pain when chewing or biting down.
How do I know if I have tooth pain from an abscess?
If you have tooth pain from an abscess, you may notice swelling in your gums, a bad taste in your mouth, and a fever. The pain can be sharp and throbbing and may get worse when you bite or chew. Contact our Timonium office if you think you have an abscess so you can get the right treatment.
Will I need my tooth removed if I have severe tooth pain?
You may only need your tooth removed if your pain is caused by a severe infection or damage we cannot treat with a filling or crown. We will help you find the cause of your toothache and provide the right treatment. Our office can also replace extracted teeth with implants.
Can tooth pain be a sign of a dental emergency?
Yes, tooth pain can be a sign of a dental emergency. It could mean you have an infection or a damaged tooth that needs immediate attention from our dentist to prevent further pain or complications. If you have severe tooth pain, contact us for emergency care.
What are the potential risks of ignoring tooth pain?
Ignoring tooth pain can be risky because if you don’t address the problem, it could get worse and lead to more pain and other issues like infections or tooth decay. See a dentist as soon as possible if you have tooth pain. We can help you take care of your teeth and keep your mouth healthy.
What can I do to prevent tooth pain in the future?
Follow these tips for good oral health and to prevent accidents:
- Brush and floss twice a day
- Visit our dentist office twice a year
- Do not use your teeth to open packages
- Avoid chewing on ice
- Eat a healthy diet and avoid sugary foods and drinks
Dr. Karpovich is a caring dentist that can help you find relief from your tooth pain in Timonium, MD. You can reach our dental office at (410) 221-3085 or request an appointment online by filling out this form.