Severe tooth pain can strike at the worst times – like when you’re trying to eat, sleep, or focus. But what causes it, and when should you take it seriously?
Dr. Kevin Priest, Dr. Evan MacDonald, and Dr. Elsie Hinz have years of experience helping patients manage and resolve dental pain. Let’s break down the common causes of severe tooth pain and when it might be time to visit your emergency dentist at Priest Dental in Ashland, Ohio.
What Causes Severe Tooth Pain?
Tooth pain can have several causes, ranging from minor issues to more serious conditions that need urgent attention. Here are some common reasons for severe discomfort:
- Cavities or Tooth Decay: When decay reaches the inner layers of your tooth, it can irritate the nerves, causing sharp or constant pain.
- Gum Disease or Infection: Inflamed gums or an untreated infection can cause throbbing pain in the teeth or jaw.
- Cracked or Fractured Teeth: A crack in your tooth, even if it’s small, can expose the nerves and cause pain when you chew or drink something hot or cold.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth that don’t erupt properly can press on surrounding teeth or become infected.
- Dental Abscess: An untreated cavity or infection can lead to a painful pocket of pus near the root of the tooth.
- TMJ Problems: Jaw joint issues can cause pain that feels like it’s coming from your teeth.
- Sinus Infections: Pressure from a sinus infection can sometimes mimic tooth pain, especially in the upper jaw.
Should You Be Worried About Tooth Pain?
If you’re dealing with severe or persistent tooth pain, it’s a good idea to have it evaluated by a dentist. Certain conditions, like infections or abscesses, may even qualify as dental emergencies that require immediate care.
Pain that doesn’t go away, swelling in your gums or face, and difficulty eating or sleeping due to discomfort are all signs of more serious issues that shouldn’t be ignored. While lingering sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods may not always be an emergency, it can still point to decay or enamel damage.
It’s always better to err on the side of caution and schedule an appointment so we can find out what’s going on.
When to Call a Dentist
At Priest Dental, we know how serious tooth pain can be. That’s why we make every effort to provide timely care.
If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, don’t wait for it to worsen. Call Priest Dental at 419-289-1813 to schedule a visit. Our team in Ashland, OH, is here to help you find relief.
