Are You Ignoring Tooth Pain?

Pain is our body's way of telling us something is wrong, and tooth pain is no different. If you suffer from tooth pain, it may be a sign of an oral health problem and should not be ignored. Seeking restorative dentistry treatment can help alleviate tooth pain and stop dental damage from becoming more severe. Drs. Burton Gooch and Kelly Warren offer personal consultations to determine the causes of tooth pain at our Birmingham, AL practice. We welcome you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gooch or Dr. Warren to determine the cause of your tooth pain and discover your treatment options.

Common Causes of Tooth Pain

Tooth pain is generally one of the biggest indicators of an oral health problem. Ignoring tooth pain can result in severe dental problems, including tooth loss. Seeking treatment can alleviate pain and protect your oral health. Some of these possible causes of tooth pain include:

• Tooth erosion: Tooth erosion refers to the wearing away of the enamel, and is commonly caused by acids in foods and drinks. Tooth erosion can cause increased tooth sensitivity.
• Tooth decay: Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of tooth pain. Tooth decay is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth, which allows acids from the bacteria to stay in direct contact with the outer layers of the teeth. As the acids stay on the teeth, they will begin to eat through the layers of the teeth, resulting in cavities and tooth pain. 
• Gum recession: Gum recession is commonly caused by gum disease. Gum recession can cause tooth pain because it leave sensitive areas of the tooth, which are usually protected by the gums, exposed to plaque and bacteria.
• Root canal infections: Root canal infections occur when bacteria is allowed to enter the root canal, the inner chamber of the tooth that holds the tooth's pulp and nerve tissues. Commonly caused by tooth decay or dental injuries, root canal infections directly impact the tooth's nerve tissue, resulting in severe tooth pain.
• Abscessed tooth: Infections in the mouth, like gum disease and root canal infections, can spread to the tissues that support the teeth. When this occurs, an abscess may develop. Abscesses are pus-filled pockets that can form around the tooth roots. They are extremely painful and can cause facial swelling.
• Loose filling: Loose fillings can allow bacteria and food debris to enter dental cavities, exposing the tooth's nerve tissues and increasing the risk of painful root canal infections.
• Dental fractures: Chips, breaks, and fractures leave the teeth vulnerable to tooth decay and root canal infections.
• Teeth grinding: Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can cause dental damage and puts stress on the teeth and jaw, all of which can manifest as tooth pain.

Protect Your Oral Health and Prevent Tooth Pain

Protecting your oral health is one of the most effective ways to prevent dental damage and tooth pain. Practice these tips to keep your smile healthy.

• Floss daily to reduce the risk of gum disease
• Brush twice a day to prevent tooth decay
• See your dentists every six months
• Seek treatment at the first signs of an oral health issue

Schedule a Consultation

Drs. Gooch and Warren offer a variety of treatments to help alleviate tooth pain and restore oral health. If you suffer from tooth pain, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our team today.