3 Types Of Dental Pain And What They Mean
If you suspect that you have a dental problem, pain can be a helpful indicator of what the problem is. Below are three common types of dental pain and what they can mean.
1. Sensitivity
There are two types of sensitivity that you may be experiencing. The first is usually associated with decay or weakened enamel, and the second is usually indicative of pulp damage.
If you experience short-lived sensitivity while eating hot or cold foods, you likely have a small cavity which requires filling, or your enamel is weakening. When enamel weakens and cavities form, your tooth's nerves become exposed and can cause the shock of pain you feel when drinking hot coffee or eating ice cream. If the pain lingers, however, you may be dealing with the more serious issue of pulp damage. This can be caused by a deep crack in the tooth or large cavity, and it's important to get this issue treated at once to avoid infection.
2. Dull Ache/Pressure
If you feel a dull ache or pressure in your upper jaw, especially upon waking in the morning, you may have a dental condition known as bruxism.
Bruxism is a condition which involves the grinding of teeth. Teeth grinding usually occurs while sleeping, but individuals who are under a lot of stress may also grind their teeth. Other signs of bruxism include unusual teeth wear and headaches, especially those which extend down towards the cheek bones and jaw. Bruxism can lead to enamel erosion, cracks, and chips, so if you're experiencing pain associated with bruxism, consult with your dentist and ask about night mouth guards to keep grinding to a minimum.
3. Constant, Severe Pain
If you've developed a constant, severe pain in one of your teeth, it's time to make an appointment with your dentist immediately.
Severe pain, especially when localized in one specific area, is usually a sign of an abscess. Abscesses are growths that are caused by infections and which contain pus. A dental abscess may develop from a cavity, but they can also be caused by a cracked tooth or receding gums, both of which can expose the pulp of the tooth to bacteria. Aside from being painful, abscesses that are left untreated can lead to serious health issues, such as sepsis, so immediate treatment is necessary.
If you're experiencing dental pain, it's time to make an appointment with your general dentist.