Many people are familiar with the stabbing heat or persistent, dull ache of tooth pain. It’s an unpleasant sensation that often brings dental drills, cavities, and root canals to mind. Fortunately, as Tohill Dentistry in Somerset, KY, explains, toothaches can be caused by various issues that don’t require a filling or tooth extraction to rectify.

Once you call your dentist to make an appointment, follow their advice on pinpointing the cause of the pain so you can find relief in the meantime:

Sensitivity to Extreme Temperatures

Do you only experience discomfort when eating something extremely hot or cold such as soup or ice cream? If so, you might be able to blame sensitive teeth for your tooth pain. According to the Journal of the American Dental Association®, one in eight Americans has this condition. It occurs when the dentin loses its protective covering, making it vulnerable to hot, cold, acidic, or sticky foods.

There is also the chance that there is a minor problem with the tooth, such as a small area of decay or a loose filling, that is responding to this change in temperature. Talk to your dentist about switching to a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth, and make a point to remove plaque regularly.

Periodontal — Gum — Disease

If your gums are painfully inflamed, red or showing a small pimple over the tooth area, your toothache might be caused by periodontitis. This chronic inflammatory disease begins as a bacterial infection in the gums. The infection will eventually spread if left unaddressed, causing structural damage to the jaw that could require a tooth extraction.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 47.2% of American adults have mild, moderate or severe periodontitis. Another tell-tale sign of this chronic inflammatory disease is teeth that bleed when you brush or floss.

Grinding or Clenching Teeth While Sleeping

Many people aren’t aware that they grind their teeth at night until they’re informed by a loved one or significant other. This constant wear on your teeth can eventually cause a fractured or loose tooth, so it’s important to speak with your dentist about corrective measures. Many patients find relief after they begin using a night guard, a mouthpiece that protects your tooth enamel as you sleep.

Find relief from tooth pain with Tohill Dentistry. With affordable and quality service, these expert dentists offer preventative, reconstructive and cosmetic dentistry to residents of Pulaski County. Whether you need a night guard to prevent nocturnal teeth grinding or are due for an annual cleaning, you can count on this dentist for the most skilled care. Put an end to tooth pain by calling (606) 679-4450 to schedule your first appointment. Visit their website to learn more about this office’s dental care services.