Top 5 Reasons Why Your Teeth Hurt

Tooth pain is a common and annoying occurrence that most people experience from time to time. Dr. Carol Jin, DDS of San Ramon, California and her competent dental team are happy to assist you in diagnosing and relieving any dental discomfort you may be feeling.

Top 5 Causes of Tooth Pain

The degree of mouth irritation you may experience related to your teeth can range from a dull ache to excruciating pain. There are many conditions that can cause teeth to hurt. In this article, we will address the top five reasons you might be experiencing pain.

• Cavities
• Gum Disease
• Abscess
• Grinding
• Damaged teeth

Tooth Decay and Cavities

Tooth decay is the loss of enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth, often caused by plaque buildup.  In areas where the enamel is compromised, the enamel collapses to form a cavity. Cavities can cause sensitivity in the tooth. If left untreated, cavities can move deeper, affecting the inner layers of the tooth, forming closer to the nerves and causing more severe pain.

Gingivitis and Other Gum Diseases

Red, swollen gums which bleed easily when brushing can contribute to tooth discomfort. In its early stages, gingivitis is a highly treatable condition. A dental health care professional such as Dr. Jin is able to recognize this disease at early onset and recommend a treatment regimen.

If left untreated, gingivitis can turn into a more advanced disease such as periodontitis. This inflammatory response is caused by plaque making its way below the gum line. The gums then separate from the teeth, breaking down the tissues that support the teeth, creating pockets, bone loss, and loose teeth.

Dental Abscesses

A condition with the potential of severe pain is an abscess. These can manifest in a couple of ways–a gum abscess or a tooth abscess. Both are pockets of pus, but the origin of the infection is different. A gum abscess generally originates in a space formed by periodontitis. Bacteria builds up in the space between the gum and tooth or bone and results in infection. A tooth abscess actually moves through the tooth and out the root. An abscess like this usually indicates that the tooth’s nerve is dead or dying. The involvement of the tooth’s nerve can trigger agonizing pain.

Teeth Grinding

Grinding or clenching teeth has a variety of causes. The resulting damage ranges from flattening, fracture, chipped, or even loose teeth. Pain can manifest in the jaw, face, neck, or your teeth themselves.

Damaged Teeth

Tooth pain can also be a product of a damaged or broken tooth. The above conditions can all contribute to a cracked or broken tooth. Other factors include chewing ice or biting down on something hard.

Schedule An Appointment Today

If you are experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, Dr. Carol Jin DDS is ready to provide you with the help you need. Specializing in gentle dentistry, your comfort is our top priority. Contact our office in San Ramon today to schedule an appointment.