Pain Signals: Types of Dental Discomfort & Their Causes

Try though you might, you can never anticipate when you’ll have a dental emergency. For instance, you might develop a toothache at night or over the weekend when your provider’s office is closed. Although many providers offer same-day visits for urgent situations, that won’t do you any good if they’re not open when you’re hurting.

It’s natural to wonder what’s causing your discomfort and how worried you should be. Continue reading to learn about 3 potential types of dental pain and what causes them to protect your smile until it’s time to contact your oral healthcare provider!

Type #1: Sensitivity to Temperature

Have you noticed a temporary tingling sensation that’s triggered when eating or drinking anything overly hot or cold? There are many potential causes for this kind of sensitivity, and some are more urgent than others.

For instance, it can be due to thinning enamel from eating overly acidic foods or brushing your teeth too aggressively. Sometimes, making more conscientious dietary decisions or switching to a desensitizing toothpaste can help. However, it might also be due to hidden fractures, cracks, or damaged roots beneath your gumline, requiring your dentist’s attention. You should schedule an emergency visit as soon as possible if you notice the sensation lasts for more than 30 seconds once it’s been triggered.

Type #2: Dull and Lingering

This may be the most common type of oral discomfort, and although it can feel quite frightening, it’s not always an emergency. For instance, this type of ache can occur if you have a popcorn kernel or something else stuck beneath your gumline or between two teeth. It can also be caused by bruxism, or chronic teeth grinding, which impacts many patients at night while they sleep.

However, it might also be due to an infection, gum disease, or tooth decay. You’ll need your dentist’s help to identify and treat the underlying issue and alleviate the ache.

Type #3: Sharp or Severe

Any sort of sharp or jabbing sensation almost always necessitates an emergency dental visit. It often is due to damaged enamel, like from a cavity or injury, a lost or broken restoration, or progressing gum disease. Whatever the cause, your provider can assess the damage and create a customized treatment plan to repair your smile and offer some well-earned pain relief.

For instance, they might need to perform an emergency root canal, then protect your damaged tooth by placing a durable dental crown that matches your smile for seamless results.

If you’re still unsure whether your toothache requires an emergency appointment, you can find out by calling your dentist as soon as their office opens!

About the Practice

Patients at Dental Expressions benefit from a husband-and-wife dental team who are committed to helping families in Freedom build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. Drs. Robert and Heather Heil collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs under one roof, including same-day emergency visits. Their caring approach is combined with advanced technology to help you feel comfortable while delivering accurate treatments tailored to you. You can request an appointment on the website or call (920) 788-6280.