Understanding Tooth Pain

A toothache can be quite disruptive and may even cause you to avoid eating, lose sleep or be unable to concentrate during the day. However, not all toothaches are the same. A tooth signals pain when something is wrong, but this can involve different types of pain. In some cases, you can get a better idea of what is causing your toothache by distinguishing the level and type of pain you are experiencing.

What Does Your Toothache Feel Like?

Toothaches or tooth pain can come on suddenly or gradually appear. It is helpful to identify the type of dental discomfort you are having so that you can better explain it to your dentist, especially if it involves a phone consultation.

How would you describe your toothache?  Do you have any other symptoms associated with your dental pain? The following are things your emergency dentist will want to know:

• Sharp or throbbing pain
• Shooting Pain
• Pain that only occurs when pressure is applied to the tooth
• Pain when eating/drinking hot and cold liquids or foods
• Unpleasant taste
• Swelling
• Fever, headache, or general malaise

What is Causing Your Tooth Pain?

Tooth pain often occurs when the inside of the tooth becomes inflamed. The inside is soft, not hard like the outside of your tooth. In fact, the inner pulp of your tooth is where living tissues reside, including your sensitive tooth nerves. There are a wide range of reasons why the inside of your tooth can become inflamed or compromised enough to trigger pain, including the following:

• Damaged dental fillings
• Gum disease
• Infection at the root of the tooth
• Chipped or broken teeth
• Tooth-grinding or jaw-clenching

Call an Emergency Dentist

At Avalon Dental Group, we are here to handle your dental emergencies. We understand how unbearable tooth pain can be, and we want to resolve your discomfort as soon as possible. While not all toothaches need urgent treatment, it is best to let your dentist decide on whether or not you need immediate care. We offer a full menu of dental services to restore damaged, infected and decayed teeth at all stages of life.