Over the course of recorded history, tooth loss was an accepted part of the human condition. It was normal for a person to lose some, if not most, of their teeth in a lifetime. This was simply one of the facts of living in those eras, and nothing was done to alleviate this condition until the advent of modern dentistry. It has only been recently, say the last 30 years or so, that treatment options have finally begun to turn the tide on tooth loss. Now, we stand at a point in history where no one should go through life without their natural smile. Tooth pain is your body’s way of telling you there is a problem with your teeth, and, if left uncorrected, you could be on a path to tooth loss.
Tooth pain can have a variety of causes and intensity levels, but is most commonly brought on by one of three factors. A broken tooth or teeth, known as fractured tooth syndrome, is the most obvious of these factors. It is probably no secret that you were hit in the mouth or you grind or clench your teeth. This problem can create sensitivity to pressure or a dull ache, and may be accompanied by an infection. The infection making its way into the root of your tooth is what causes the dull ache you feel.
Tooth pain triggered by hot, cold, or sweet foods may be an indication that a cavity is eating away at your tooth. Cavities are caused by bacteria gnawing on the structure of your tooth, and can be a source of excruciating pain if it reaches the nerve or bone. Some cavities may even cause an abscess to form on the gum tissue. Tooth loss is inevitable if cavities are not properly treated.
The final cause of common tooth pain we will cover is periodontal disease. Easily the most serious of the three we have discussed, periodontal disease is an infection of the gum tissue and surrounding bone that hold your teeth firmly in place. Bleeding or swollen gums are a sure indication of periodontal disease, and should be addressed as quickly as possible. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection, and, like all infections, can spread throughout your body if left unchecked. This can represent a serious risk to your overall health.
As you can see, tooth pain comes in many forms and from many causes. No matter the source, if you experience any form of tooth pain you should see a dental professional right away. Your best defense against tooth pain, and eventual tooth loss, is regular dental checkups every six months. A dentist will be able to diagnose your issue, and prescribe the most effective course of treatment available. Contact Smiles by Design today to schedule an appointment with one of our amazing dentists, and put yourself back on the path to a perfect smile!