Your mouth aches. Is it cavity pain or is it something else? There are a number of conditions that can mimic cavity symptoms Phoenix AZ. Here are some reasons that teeth hurt and why you need to see the dentist. Sometimes emergency dental care is essential. Other times you can manage the pain until office hours.
Why Causes Cavity Pain?
A tooth will hurt because the tooth’s soft center is irritated. This dental pulp includes blood vessels and connective tissues. The nerves reach down through the root through the tooth canals. There may a constant ache or it may come and go. Sensitivity to heat or cold may set it off. It may be difficult to eat. Often the pain gets worse at night when your mind is trying to shut out the world and go to sleep.
What Causes Tooth Pain?
Tooth Decay
Bacteria has slowly eaten through the tooth. It penetrates the hard outer layer and exposes the soft pulp. Filling the cavity should stop the pain.
Pulpitis
Pulpitis is a condition where the tooth pulp is inflamed and irritated. This may require more than filling the cavity.
Abscess
If the tooth pulp dies, it can leave a pocket of bacteria and puss. This is called an abscessed tooth. It may need to be pulled.
Impacted Tooth
A wisdom tooth or cuspid may grow on top of other teeth. Roots get tangled up, and nerves are irritated. This may require pulling the impacted tooth to allow the good teeth to thrive.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis, infection of the gums, can cause a toothache. This is due to the bacteria that has built up on the roots. Regular cleanings and gingivitis treatments are the best defense against this problem.
Broken Tooth
A split or cracked tooth can be very painful. This is because it affects sensitive nerves connected to the soft pulp or roots of the tooth. A quick trip to the dentist is definitely warranted. Dental bonding and other procedures may be used to save the tooth and stop the pain.
Sensitive Teeth
Exposed dentin is beneath the enamel of the tooth. It can become sensitive where there are worn fillings, cracked teeth or receding gums. Of course, a cavity may have occurred and need a filling. Your Phoenix AZ dentist at Sky Dental can tell you what is causing your problem and discuss what to do.
Bruxism
Tooth grinding or clenching happens to a large percentage of people. This usually happens at night when the person is sleeping and unaware of the problem. Your dentist can make a special nightguard to prevent this problem. It may end your tooth pain. It will certainly go a long way toward saving your teeth from slow and steady destruction.
What’s causing your pain? Let us help you. Call Sky Dental or make an appointment online at the office nearest you.