Causes of Tooth Pain

If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, it is important to schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible so a dentist can identify the source of the discomfort. In many cases, tooth pain is a sign of an underlying dental problem. At Silvers Family Dental Care, Dr. Warren Silvers III and Dr. Daniel Laux offer general dentistry services to diagnose dental problems and treat the causes of your tooth pain. To learn more about the causes of tooth pain, contact our Harrisburg, PA practice today.

Dental Cavities

Dental cavities result when plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, attracting bacteria. Dental bacteria feed on plaque, and emit acids that eat away at the structure of the tooth, resulting in small holes or cavities. As the decay penetrates the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth, it can result in pain in the affected tooth. Pain resulting from dental cavities can be treated with fillings, inlays, onlays, or crowns.

Root Canal Infections

If a cavity is not treated, bacteria can reach the central chambers of the tooth, the root canals. The root canals contain nerve and connective tissues; when these tissues become infected, it can result in severe pain and tooth abscesses. Patients that have developed a root canal infection should seek immediate treatment so we can removed the diseased tissues and fill the root canals with a durable dental material to prevent re-infection.

Loose Filling

A loose filling can allow hot and cold foods and drinks to come into contact with the more sensitive inner structures of the tooth. Dr. Silvers or Dr. Daniel Laux can remove the old filling and place a new tooth-colored filling to treat discomfort.

Exposed Root

Gum recession can result in an exposed root. The roots of the teeth are more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures and pressure. If you have an exposed root, we may place composite material over the root to prevent sensitivity.

Cracked, Fractured, or Chipped Tooth

A cracked, fractured, or chipped tooth exposes the inner, more sensitive structures of the tooth. These dental problems should be addressed with composite bonding or fillings, crowns, inlays, or onlays to treat discomfort and prevent further dental problems.

Tooth Erosion

Tooth erosion results when the protective outer layer of the tooth, the enamel, begins to wear away. Patients with tooth erosion should use sensitive-formula toothpaste. In severe cases, tooth erosion can be treated with dental bonding, veneers, or crowns.

Recent Dental Work

A tooth recently treated with a restoration may be more prone to sensitivity. This should dissipate a few days after treatment.

Bruxism

Bruxism, or chronic teeth clenching and grinding, can result in tooth pain. In many cases, patients experience discomfort throughout the back teeth. Stress-reducing techniques may minimize bruxism. However, in most cases, patients with bruxism should wear a mouth guard at night to prevent the grinding and clenching, most of which typically occurs at night.

To find out the source of your tooth pain, contact Silvers Family Dental Care today.