Dental pain is a public health problem that affects up to 88% of people, and the nerves in our teeth communicate that something is wrong with toothaches. Ignoring a toothache can seem justified for patients with a jam-packed schedule or fear of going to the dentist. However, it’s essential to know that if you’re suffering from sensitivity, prolonged discomfort, or shooting pain in a tooth, you should immediately schedule an emergency dental appointment with Dr. Julie Glud in Lombard, IL. Continue reading to discover why these types of tooth pain should never be disregarded and why it’s crucial to meet with your dentist without delay.
A Sharp, Shooting Pain in Tooth
Usually, sharp, shooting pain in a tooth indicates a cavity. At this stage of tooth decay, the cavity has most likely made its way down to the tooth root (pulp chamber). The tooth’s root is filled with blood vessels and nerves that keep the tooth alive. Typically, hard enamel protects a healthy tooth against heat, cold, and other elements.
When a cavity opens a hole into the pulp chamber, it exposes the dental nerves to outside forces. So, you may feel intense discomfort or sensitivity after chewing or even inhaling cool air if you have a deeply infected tooth.
Commonly, shooting pain in a tooth is isolated to the area around the cavity. So, you can simply chew on the opposite side of your mouth while waiting for your next dental appointment.
Frequent Sensitivity
Has it become challenging to enjoy a hot cup of joe in the morning or a midnight ice cream snack? Primarily, frequent sensitivity indicates one of two things: thin enamel or receding gums.
Although some patients are prone to dental sensitivity due to genetically thinner tooth enamel, your enamel can also erode and become thinner due to chronic teeth grinding (bruxism) and tooth decay. Your dentist may prescribe a toothpaste for sensitive teeth, a mouthguard, or anti-cavity treatment to address these specific problems.
Additionally, gums that begin to pull away from the teeth may also cause sensitivity. When gums recede, they often expose the nerve-containing tooth roots. If extreme temperatures bother your teeth, it’s time to meet with your dentist.
Constant, Throbbing Pain
If you’ve just had dental work done, you might experience some level of discomfort as your mouth heals and adjusts. However, consistent, prolonged, and throbbing pain could mean an underlying oral health problem, such as:
- Shifting teeth
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Periodontal disease
- Tooth decay
- Pulpitis (inflamed, infected tooth pulp)
- Cysts and abscesses
Living with this type of pain, swelling, and infection can quickly become unbearable. When pain doesn’t go away on its own, it can make concentrating, eating, and sleeping more challenging. Your dentist can help address this issue through various methods, so contact your dentist before this problem gets worse.
Are you dealing with dental sensitivity, prolonged discomfort, or shooting pain in a tooth?
Even though toothaches happen at the most inconvenient times, don’t dismiss them. Your Lombard dental team wants to provide long-lasting pain relief by addressing your dental issue before it worsens or spreads like wildfire. So, make sure to book an appointment with us as soon as you notice your first sign of pain! Schedule an emergency dental appointment at Dental Care of Lombard by calling 630-629-5700 or messaging us online.
