tooth-pain-causes

Number 1 Reason to Visit Your Dentist is: Tooth Pain

It is no fun to have tooth pain. But, did you know that pain or swelling in your mouth, face or neck can mean several different things.

But what makes having tooth pain or a toothache the NUMBER ONE reason you need to see your dentist? Let’s discuss the Top Ten Symptoms or reasons why you are experiencing tooth pain:

Top 10 Symptoms of Tooth Pain:

Symptom 1: Toothache

If you are experiencing pain in your mouth or jaw, it could be because of a toothache. A toothache usually reveals a cavity, but they can also indicate gum disease. It could also be the sign of an impacted tooth or abscess. A toothache should be evaluated by your dentist right away to find out the cause of the problem and prevent the tooth from dying.

Related Article: Toothache Causes: Why do I have tooth pain and how can I get relief?

 

Symptom 2: Sensitive Teeth

You may have sensitive teeth, if you experience pain or your teeth hurt when you drink cold or hot beverages.

This can be the result of:

  • fractured teeth
  • tooth decay
  • worn tooth enamel
  • worn fillings
  • gum disease
  • exposed tooth root due to receding gums

Treatment will depend on the source of your sensitivity. See your dentist for a diagnosis and to discuss your treatment options.

Related Article: Why do I have Sensitive Teeth??

 

Symptom 3: Sore or Bleeding Gums

Sore or bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis, which is an early stage of gum disease that can be reversed. Or simply, the result of beginning a new flossing routine or brushing too hard. If your gums regularly bleed, schedule a dental appointment, as it could be a sign that something else is wrong.

Related Article: Gum Disease Explained: Signs, Symptoms and Treatments

 

Symptom 4: Mouth Sores

Types of mouth sores include cold sores, canker sores, leukoplakia and candidiasis. They vary in their severity and causes.

Mouth sores could be the symptom of:

  • disorder or disease
  • bacterial infection
  • viruses or fungus
  • simply result from irritation caused by braces, dentures
  • irritation caused by the sharp edge of a filling or broken tooth

Your dentist should examine any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer.

 

Symptom 5: Bad Breath

Bad breath can be caused by

  • what you eat
  • not cleaning your mouth
  • dry mouth
  • smoking
  • other medical conditions

Persistent bad breath can also be one of the warning signs of gum disease. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential to reducing bad breath and preventing gum disease. Brushing your tongue can help too. If you are concerned about what’s causing your bad breath, see your dentist. They can determine the cause and treatment plan.

Related Article: How Do I Stop Bad Breath?

 

Symptom 6: Jaw Pain or Popping/Clicking in the Jaw

There are many things that can cause these symptoms, which can make it difficult to diagnose.

Possible causes include:

  • sinus problems
  • toothache
  • arthritis
  • injury
  • teeth grinding
  • gingivitis
  • problems with your jaw, like TMJ

Your dentist will conduct a thorough exam, which may include X-rays, to determine the source of the pain.

 

Symptom 7: Dry Mouth

Saliva is the mouth’s primary defense against tooth decay. It washes away food and other debris, neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and provides disease-fighting substances throughout the mouth. If you have dry mouth it may be the symptom of a medical disorder or a side effect of certain medications. Your dentist can recommend ways to help moisture.

 

Symptom 8: Oral Piercing Infection

Oral piercings can create a wide range of problems for your health, oral and otherwise. Your mouth is home to huge amounts of bacteria, creating an ideal place for infection to start.

If you have any signs of infection:

  • swelling
  • pain
  • fever
  • chills
  • shaking
  • red-streaked appearance around the site of the piercing

contact your dentist or physician immediately.

 

Symptom 9: Broken or Cracked Teeth

A broken or cracked tooth can happen for a variety of reasons:

  • brittle teeth
  • teeth grinding
  • injury

The crack may be invisible to the naked eye and even X-ray, but they can be incredibly painful and create bigger problems if left untreated. If you experience pain when chewing see your dentist. They can diagnose the cause and develop a plan for treatment.

Related Articles:

Save Your Teeth from Constant Grinding with Custom Mouthguards

Get the Scoop: Root Canal Treatment

 

Symptom 10: Stained or Discolored Teeth

Over time your teeth can become stained and change color.

This is often the result of:

  • eating certain foods, such as coffee or tea
  • smoking
  • aging
  • genetics
  • injury
  • certain medications

Whitening options can include over the counter or in-office treatments. Check with your dentist about your options for stain removal that are both safe and effective.

 

Adams Dental Group Can Help!

As you can see, your toothache could be from a cavity or it could be caused by a number of different things. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, Dr. Roberts and his excellent team can help quickly diagnose your symptoms and get you out of pain.

Local dentist, Travis A. Roberts and his experienced, friendly team at Adams Dental Group offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the Kansas City, KS area. We have two locations that are conveniently located and offer appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At Adams Dental Group, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to specialty procedures, including dental implants, dentures, endodontic or root canal treatment, teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at our West location (913) 296-8030 to schedule an appointment.

 

April 28th, 2020

Posted In: Emergency Dental Care

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