Different factors can trigger tooth sensitivity. They include gum sensitivity, a bacterial infection, a piece of food stuck in the gums, and a broken or damaged tooth. However, some more severe toothaches necessitate a visit to a dentist to alleviate the pain and the underlying issue.
Toothaches Can Come in Two Phases
Although sudden tooth sensitivity may be unusual and not a serious concern, ignoring it could lead to severe consequences. Depending on why you have a toothache, the pain can subside soon and recur. After a while of not feeling the pain, you may think the issue has been addressed until you experience toothache again. This makes it important to see a dentist if you experience toothaches, especially if they recur. If you have a broken or cracked tooth, visit a cosmetic dentist in Lawrenceville, GA for the right fix.
Causes of Random Tooth Pain
Sudden tooth pain can affect your entire body. Also, it can impact your job and the way you function. Thus, you must know the causes of toothaches to prevent unbearable tooth pain. If you know the possible cause of your discomfort, you will know the steps to take when you suddenly experience toothache and when to see a dentist. Toothaches can be caused by any of the following:
- Dental procedures. Some dental procedures can cause tooth pain, but only temporarily. This pain can result from drilling involved in a procedure or getting a dental filling. Such procedures can make your tooth’s nerve endings become more sensitive. Thankfully, this should subside in less than two weeks.
- Tooth decay. Dental cavities or tooth decay are the most common causes of toothaches. The pain is caused by the bacteria in the layers of the teeth. These bacteria feed on starches and sugars that your food has. They produce acid that can slowly erode your tooth enamel and lead to the appearance of holes or weak spots. Typically, cavities cause minor discomfort at first, but once they spread inside your teeth and affect the nerve endings, they can cause more serious pain.
- A cracked tooth or dental crown. Exposed nerve endings, serious dental cavities, and tooth loss are risks related to broken or cracked teeth. Dental injuries can occur because of teeth grinding, aging, getting hit in your mouth, chewing or biting on hard foods, and compromised tooth integrity. However, even an unnoticeable tooth crack can cause pain. Sometimes, a minimal tooth break can still cause unbearable tooth pain.
- Enamel erosion. Your teeth are composed of enamel, which is the hardened outer layer, and a softer inner layer known as dentin. The dentin is made up of tiny tubules that can get exposed because of damaged tooth enamel. When such exposure occurs, tooth pain or sensitivity can be experienced. Factors such as hard tooth brushing and extremely acidic diet can cause enamel or dentin erosion. Your tooth enamel serves as a coating that protects your teeth. When it erodes and is not replaced, you can feel a shooting pain when you eat some foods.
- Gum infection. Gum infections or diseases can lead to gum redness and swelling. When not treated, such conditions can worsen and lead to bone loss. This gives more room for plaque and bacteria to develop, causing tooth sensitivity and pain.
- Teeth grinding and clenching. Jaw clenching and tooth grinding often happen during sleep because of stress or anxiety. These habits put pressure on the teeth, wearing down the enamel. This results in long-term tooth pain and sensitivity.
- Gum recession. Your gums protect your nerve endings. With age, the gum tissue may deteriorate and recede, exposing the roots of your teeth and making them prone to infections. When you experience toothache symptoms, you may be suffering from gum recession.
