Closeup of young woman suffering from toothache at home
Did you know that 64% of Americans between the ages of 50 and 64 say their teeth are a cause of embarrassment? Likewise, many of these folks also suffer from chronic or acute tooth pain.
Don’t ignore the chronic or acute pain, as it is a signal of a dental problem that will only grow more severe.
But what causes tooth pain? And what can you do about it? Read on to learn more about the top tooth pain causes and how to treat them.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene Habits
Do you brush your teeth twice a day? How often do you floss?
Your daily oral habits are vital for healthy teeth. Poor oral hygiene habits lead to cavities, infections, and periodontitis which can all cause tooth pain.
2. Teeth Grinding
Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding is a significant contributor to what causes tooth pain. Folks who grind usually do so at night or during periods of stress.
If you suspect this is the cause of your pain, consult your dentist about a mouthguard to prevent tooth wear and tear.
3. Tooth Loss
When you’re missing a tooth, your remaining teeth shift because of the open space in your gumline. This shifting is often a significant cause of tooth pain.
Overdentures and other tooth replacements will prevent any shifting.
4. Filling Issues
Why does my tooth hurt after my last dental appointment?
When filling a cavity, dental professionals want to maintain your natural bite. Unfortunately, they sometimes don’t get it right. New fillings that sit too high on your bite line can cause a toothache.
Should you feel pain after receiving a filling, make sure to consult your dentist right away. They’ll grind your filling to give you a pain-free bite.
5. Worn Enamel
Do your teeth hurt when exposed to heat or cold? How long does your tooth pain last in these scenarios?
If heat or cold causes tooth pain, your enamel is worn. Your dentist can prescribe toothpaste and fluoride mouthwash to promote enamel strength.
6. Abscess
Dental decay starts as a cavity. Untreated, this decay will reach the roots of your teeth.
When the decay enters your roots, it will cause an acute infection called an abscess. These abscesses cause throbbing pain and pressure that won’t abate.
If you believe you have an abscessed tooth, seek dental help right away, as the only resolutions are a root canal or an extraction.
Top Tooth Pain Causes
You can’t ignore tooth pain. Even if it disappears, it’s likely a symptom of an underlying dental issue. And if you don’t address your pain, it will only grow more severe in time.
Knowing these top tooth pain causes can help you diagnose your pain, but they won’t relieve it. If you experience tooth pain or any other dental discomfort, make sure to contact your dentist.
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