A pain in a tooth.
Pain experienced in a tooth or teeth. If the discomfort increases or continues during a 4- to 6-week period, a dentist should be seen for an evaluation. When a toothache is transitory, periodic, and associated with sensitivity to hot or cold food or drinks, the cause may be minor gum recession, which exposes the cementum on the surface of the root and causes sensitivity. If sharp pain is experienced when biting down, or if there is lingering pain after exposure to hot or cold substances, the cause may be a loose filling, a crack in the tooth, or tooth decay. When a toothache is persistent and severe, highly sensitive to pressure or touch, and the surrounding gum is swollen, a tooth abscess may be suspected. Toothaches generally indicate the need for a dental evaluation.
Pain in a tooth or the region about a tooth. The origin of pain in a tooth is physical, chemical, thermal, and bacteriological trauma. Treatment may include restorations, extractions, or topical application of medications, among others.
Discomfort experienced in one or multiple teeth, occasionally extending to the gums.
Initial dental caries (decay) can result in slight tooth discomfort when consuming extremely hot, cold, or sugary foods. As decay progresses or a tooth becomes fractured, or if a deep filling lacks proper insulation, pulpitis (inflammation of the pulp) might occur. This typically gives rise to a sharp, piercing pain that is frequently more intense when the individual is in a reclined position.
Should the inflammation expand, the surrounding tissues near the tooth’s root might become impacted, leading to a condition called periapical periodontitis. This results in localized discomfort primarily triggered by biting and chewing. Furthermore, a dental abscess may develop. In such instances, the pain is intense and frequently persistent, the gum around the afflicted tooth turns tender and inflamed, and potential facial and neck swelling may arise alongside fever.
Occasionally, tooth pain can be attributed to sinusitis (inflammation of the membrane that lines the facial air cavities), resulting in pain being felt in the upper molar and premolar teeth.
Pain relief through analgesic medications could offer temporary respite. It’s advisable to schedule a visit to the dentist at the earliest convenience.