At Smooth Dental in Oran Park, NSW, we often encounter patients experiencing tooth pain. Tooth pain can have various causes, and understanding these can help in both prevention and treatment.
Common causes of tooth pain include:
1. Tooth decay — Cavities can expose sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
2. Gum disease — Inflamed gums can cause sensitivity and pain.
3. Cracked or chipped tooth — Damage to the tooth structure can lead to pain.
4. Tooth abscess — An infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and tooth.
5. Sensitive teeth — Worn enamel or exposed roots can cause pain when eating hot or cold foods.
6. Teeth grinding (bruxism) — This can cause tooth and jaw pain.
7. Impacted wisdom teeth — As they emerge, wisdom teeth can cause discomfort.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For minor sensitivity, using desensitising toothpaste or a fluoride gel might help. Over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief. However, these are short-term solutions, and addressing the root cause is crucial.
For more severe or persistent pain, professional dental treatment is necessary. This might involve:
- Fillings for cavities
- Root canal therapy for infected or badly decayed teeth
- Gum treatments for periodontal disease
- Crowns for cracked teeth
- Extraction for severely damaged or impacted teeth
At Smooth Dental, we recommend scheduling an appointment as soon as possible if you're experiencing tooth pain. Early intervention can prevent the problem from worsening, often leading to simpler, less invasive treatments.
In the meantime, maintain good oral hygiene, avoid very hot or cold foods, and try gently rinsing with warm salt water. Remember, persistent tooth pain is your body's way of signalling that something needs attention. Our experienced team in Oran Park is here to diagnose the cause and provide appropriate treatment to restore your oral health and comfort.