Your tooth could ache for various reasons, and the cause is not always clear. Sometimes the pain is transitory and fades away by itself, but it can also signify something more serious. Besides, there are numerous kinds of tooth pain, ranging from mild to intense, constant or intermittent, or that begins rapidly or gradually worsens. Other symptoms, such as edema or bleeding, could also be present. During your initial consultation at Nova Family Dentistry, general and cosmetic dentist Amir Faraj will perform a comprehensive diagnosis of your ache to figure out what is causing your pain and get the best treatment possible. Here are some of the most prevalent reasons for Novi tooth pain:
1. Tooth Decay
Enamel is the strong outer coating that protects your tooth. Plaque bacteria eat away at the enamel, leading to cavities, also known as tooth decay. Many people believe that cavities affect mainly children. However, gums recede away from their teeth as you get older. Receding gums reveal the tooth’s roots to plaque, resulting in tooth decay. For adults above 35 years, this kind of tooth decay is rather frequent. Unaddressed tooth decay not only triggers discomfort but could cause tooth loss.
2. Dental Abscess
Bacterial infections can result in pus pockets forming within the gums and teeth. Once this occurs, it is known as a dental abscess, including gingival, periodontal, and periapical abscesses. Regardless of what form of dental abscess develops, they are all uncomfortable. A tooth abscess will usually trigger significant, throbbing pain. Besides the discomfort, other signs of a dental abscess include sensitivity, swallowing difficulty, fever, and a foul taste in your mouth.
3. Damaged Filling
Tooth fillings are utilized to address cavities. Even though fillings are long-lasting, they might be damaged by various factors, including biting on hard foods, teeth grinding, and poor dental hygiene.
One of the signs of a faulty filling is a toothache. Other signs and symptoms include a jagged edge to the filling or heightened sensitivity to cold and hot foods and beverages. You should address a damaged filling immediately. Otherwise, it might result in dental issues like bacteria accumulating between your tooth and the filling, culminating in tooth abscess or decay.
4. Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial illness that impacts the gums and the surrounding bone. Gum diseases start out as gingivitis, characterized by red, puffy, or bleeding gums after brushing or flossing your teeth. When not corrected, it could lead to periodontitis. Common signs of this condition include receding gums and discomfort in your teeth or gums, particularly when chewing.
Tooth pain is the most common indicator of dental disorders. Therefore, if you have a toothache that lasts more than a few days or is causing you extreme discomfort, you should see a dentist. At Nova Family Dentistry, Dr. Amir Faraj will examine your tooth for common dental concerns, including tooth decay, abscess, damaged filling, periodontitis, etc. For expert evaluation and individualized care solutions for your tooth pain, make an appointment today through mobile or book online.