Dental pain can be extremely uncomfortable, and at times, excruciating. If you have been experiencing dental pain, you will want to locate the source of the issue and have the problem treated by your dentist as soon as possible. Continue reading to learn more about common causes of tooth pain as well as how you can best manage it with the help of your dentist.
Common Causes of Tooth Pain
To determine the cause of your tooth pain and to design a treatment plan that will successfully combat the problem, your dentist will conduct a thorough oral examination. An x-ray will be taken of the area. No matter the situation, your dentist’s main goal will be to save your natural tooth with some form of dental treatment or restoration.
Below is a list of common causes of tooth pain and their corresponding treatment:
- Decay: If the tooth has experienced decay, your dentist will place a filling. If the decay is extensive, a simple filling may not be enough to salvage the tooth or stop the pain; in this case, a large filling known as a buildup and a crown may be needed.
- Exposed or damaged nerve at center of tooth: The nerve at the center of the tooth is responsible for all sensations felt. When damage reaches the nerve, a root canal is needed in order to preserve the life of the tooth.
- Lost or damaged filling: A lost or damaged filling may cause sensitivity or pain. Your dentist will determine if they can simply place a new filling, or if further restorative work is needed.
- Emerging wisdom teeth: Emerging wisdom teeth can cause massive amounts of pain and pressure in the head. In most cases, your dentist will provide you with a referral to have your wisdom teeth removed by an oral surgeon.
- Infection or abscess: An infection in the mouth can be very painful and dangerous. Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics before doing any restorative work on the area to ensure that the infection is gone.
- Blunt force trauma: Sports or other activities have the potential to lead to blunt force trauma, which can cause broken or even lost teeth. Your dentist will do an examination to determine what needs to be done.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold: This could mean that the enamel of the tooth has been compromised, or that the nerve is exposed. A root canal may be needed; your dentist will conduct an exam to determine the cause of sensitivity.
- Teeth grinding: Teeth grinding can lead to pain or pressure in the jaw, and it can also cause the teeth to become extremely worn down over time. Your dentist will have you fit for a protective mouth guard, which will help protect the teeth and jaw.
There are a number of different reasons that an individual may experience tooth pain. It is always best to consult your dentist as soon as possible to eliminate any pain or discomfort you may be experiencing. Here at Oakton Dental, we will work with you to ensure that the cause of your pain is quickly identified and taken care of. We are proud to offer comprehensive dental services to Oakton, VA and the surrounding areas of Fairfax and Vienna. To get scheduled for an appointment in our Oakton dental office, give us a call at (703) 938-3405.
