Toothaches can range from dull and nagging to sharp and throbbing. While most experience tooth pain while eating or drinking, it can happen at any time, often without warning. While the best way to know what's causing your tooth pain is to visit your dentist, understanding the type of pain you're in can help determine what's causing it, and the best way to treat it. Use the guide below to learn more about tooth pain at what causes it. 

Common Forms of Tooth Pain & How to Address Them

1. Sensitivity to Hot & Cold

Temperature sensitivity occurs when the enamel on your teeth wears down, exposing the sensitive nerve cells underneath. It is typically characterized by sharp pain when consuming a hot or cold beverage or food item, or even by air when taking a deep breath.

You can manage tooth sensitivity by switching to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, using a soft-bristle toothbrush, or by avoiding highly acidic foods. Temperature sensitivity that lasts longer than a few days may indicate an infection in the tooth pulp or a cavity.

2. Dull, Persistent Ache

A persistent ache can be caused by something as harmless as food stuck between your teeth to more severe issues, such as an abscess or tooth decay.

Flossing and rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash can help remove food that has lodged itself between your teeth and gums, but if the issue persists, consider talking to your dentist about the possibility of bruxism (tooth grinding) or damage to previous dental work. 

3. Sharp Pains

Sharp or stabbing pains almost always require a visit to the dentist. While extremely uncomfortable, this is typically the result of a loose filling or a crown that has fallen off. If this is not the case, it can also be a sign of a tooth fracture, decay, a cavity, or worn-down enamel exposing your sensitive nerves.

Sharp pain in your mouth can also indicate an infection, so if you experience this, contact your dentist right away so they can identify the issue and relieve your discomfort quickly.

If you're experiencing tooth pain, don't wait until it gets worse, contact the caring and professional team at Tohill Dentistry in Somerset, KY. For nearly 40 years, this family-owned business has provided high-quality dental care for residents throughout Pulaski County. Contact them today at (606) 679-4450 to schedule an appointment or visit them online to learn more about their services.