Common Reasons for Tooth Pain

Almost everyone will experience tooth pain at some point in their life. As those who have suffered tooth pain can attest, a toothache can be pretty unbearable. Toothaches are notorious for coming on suddenly and being difficult to relieve. Here at Meadows Family Dentistry, we want to help you understand why you may be experiencing tooth pain and what steps need to be taken to relieve this pain.

Common Reasons for Tooth Pain

Below are a few of the most common reasons why you may be experiencing a toothache:

• Dental Cavity – The most obvious cause of tooth pain is a dental cavity. In the early stages of a cavity, you may not feel pain. However, if the cavity is allowed to worsen, it will eventually begin to affect the nerves of the tooth, causing pain. Keeping regular dental checkups will often allow us to catch any dental cavities before you begin to experience pain.
• Gum Recession – If you’re brushing your teeth too vigorously, you may be unknowingly causing damage to the gum tissue. Once the gums begin to recede as a result of this damage, the roots of the teeth will become exposed, causing pain and sensitivity. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing gently.
• Cracked Tooth – You may think that it would be obvious if a tooth had cracked, but this isn’t always the case. Symptoms of cracked teeth may not even appear until days after the damage was done. If you suspect you’ve cracked a tooth, please visit our office immediately before the crack has a chance to deepen.
• Bruxism – Bruxism is the official term for the nighttime grinding and clenching of the teeth. Many people grind their teeth in their sleep as the result of stress or because of certain sleep disorders. As the teeth grind and clench against one another, the enamel will begin to wear down, causing pain and sensitivity in the teeth. Here at Meadows Family Dentistry, we can create a custom night-guard for you to wear to bed to minimize the damage caused by bruxism.

There are a number of reasons why your tooth may be hurting. But it’s important to keep in mind that almost every reason for tooth pain has to do with a problem in the mouth, meaning you should make an appointment here at Meadows Family Dentistry. If you’re experiencing a toothache, please give our Castle Rock, Colorado family dental office a call immediately.