Tooth pain is caused by inflammation and irritation to the nerve of the tooth. It may be caused by infection, cavities, tooth loss or trauma. Ear pain, jaw pain and heart disease may also cause pain that radiates to the jaw area and feels like tooth pain. Symptoms of tooth pain can range from mild to severe and be sporadic or chronic.
Momentary Hot or Cold Pain
This type of pain is usually fleeting and does not convey a serious problem. It can be caused by a loose filling, a little tooth decay or some gum recession. Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help.
Lingering Hot or Cold Pain
Physical trauma or deep tooth decay are the most common causes of lingering hot or cold pain. Treatment for such tooth pain is usually a root canal. A root canal is a procedure that is done to clean out the pulp damage. Once the damage is cleaned out, the space in the tooth is filled and sealed.
Pain When Biting Down
This type of pain is usually a sharp pain and has several causes. It can be caused by a loose filling, tooth decay, a cracked tooth or damage to the pulp tissue inside of the tooth. If your pain is caused by damage to the pulp tissue, this usually warrants a root canal.
Pressure and Pain in Upper Teeth and Jaw
This type of pain is usually dull and aches. It can be caused by grinding your teeth or from a sinus headache. The condition of grinding your teeth is called bruxism and needs to be treated by your dentist.
Constant, Severe Pain
This type of pain can also include pressure, sensitivity to touch and swelling of gums. It is usually caused by an infection in the tissue and bone surrounding your tooth. This means that the tooth has become abscessed. Your dentist or endodontist will evaluate the infection and pain to see if the tooth needs to be extracted or can be saved.
