If you're experiencing toothaches, teeth or gum pain, contact your dentist immediately to schedule an appointment. Here, our Regina dentists explain some possible causes of your pain and what you can do until you can see the dentist.
Oral health is important not only to your mouth and gums, but to your overall health as well. Many dental issues, especially gum disease, can lead to serious health problems.
In most instances, a good oral hygiene routine will prevent toothaches or discomfort. However, there are many reasons why you might still experience pain in your teeth or gums, and some are serious.
Possible Causes of Tooth Pain & Gum Pain
Whether minor or severe, the causes for toothaches and gum pain should be diagnosed by your dentist. If it's determined to be critical, they may want to see you immediately. In less extreme cases, they will schedule an appointment for you.
Either way, you can take over-the-counter medication or use an ice pack to reduce inflammation and discomfort until you can see your dentist.
Abscessed Tooth
Bacterial infections can lead to pockets of pus that not only create painful sensitivity, but can also develop into a much more serious or life-threatening condition.
Trauma to Tooth
A broken tooth can be very painful and shouldn't be ignored. Your dentist may treat it with fillings, bonding or a crown.
Gum Disease
Gum disease (periodontal disease) can range from minor to very serious, depending on the severity. On the minor end, your dentist may perform what is known as scaling and planning, which is a process to remove the buildup of plaque from the gum line. On the more urgent end, severe gum disease may require a root canal.
Cavity/Tooth Decay
The onset of a cavity may not be sudden but the pain can be. This should be taken care of before it can progress to an infection.
Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can result in quite a bit of pain as they are emerging through the gums. They can also cause secondary issues, such as tooth crowding and damage if there isn't sufficient space for them. Your dentist can advise if any action is recommended.
Tooth Sensitivity
Temporary tooth sensitivity can occur and typically doesn't indicate a serious problem. Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help. Try to avoid extreme heat or cold with your food and drinks until the sensitivity subsides. If the sensitivity lasts more than a couple days, this could be a flag for more serious concern.
Teeth Grinding
The repetitive act of grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw can cause chronic sensitivity issues. Speak with your dentist for ways to break this habit.
Other Causes
Despite feeling the pain in your teeth, there are times when the issue is actually outside your mouth. Sinus or viral infections, colds, headaches, and vitamin deficiencies can cause symptoms similar to a toothache. However, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as misdiagnosing the pain or ignoring it could cause serious issues. Most dental pain won't self-correct and should be seen by your dentist.
