If you wake up and notice your tooth is in severe pain, it’s likely you won’t be able to think about anything else. Severe tooth pain indicates you’re having a dental emergency and need to visit your emergency dentist in Ocala right away.
However, whenever we encounter pain, especially suddenly, it’s easy to jump to conclusions on what’s happening. That’s why your dentist wanted to provide insight on what types of tooth pain likely mean the next time you have it.
Severe Throbbing Pain
If you notice a throbbing pain in your mouth, as well as swelling or a fever, you need to call your emergency dentist in Ocala and schedule an appointment for the same day if possible. This type of pain is likely associated with an infection or abscess in your gums or tooth. Without treatment, the infection could spread and cause complications later, so don’t put this off.
Pain in the Back of the Jaw
This pain is not as common, but easier to diagnose because of it’s association with wisdom teeth. If you notice pain in your molars, there’s a good chance that your teeth have become impacted and that you’ll need a wisdom tooth extraction to treat it. Even if you don’t experience pain and you notice your wisdom teeth erupting, you’ll want to schedule an appointment with your dentist so they can confirm that they’re erupting properly.
Sharp Tooth Sensitivity
Sensations such as this typically only occur when your teeth are responding to external stimuli. This happens through very hot or cold foods and beverages, so keep this in mind the next time you feel sharp sensitivity. However, cold air can also trigger sensitivity.
Pain like this could have resulted from a cavity, abscess, gum recession, or from simply brushing too hard.
Dull Nagging Pain
This is what the typical patient experiences when they have tooth pain. It tends to come and go and the pain associated with it is typically mild. While this indicates tooth decay or nerve damage and should be examined by your emergency dentist in Ocala, you can also use painkillers to stave off the pain until your appointment. Remember, taking painkillers is not enough to treat a toothache, even if the pain is minor.
Pain While Eating
Pain while chewing likely means you have tooth decay or that one of your teeth has fractured in some way. While a sports injury is typically the cause of dental fractures, it can also occur from chewing something too hard, grinding your teeth, or using your teeth as a tool. This pain can also be managed with medication but should not be a substitute for visiting your dentist for treatment.
Don’t let your dental pain ruin your day. Get treated by your dentist in Ocala!
About the Author
Dr. Daniel Weldon earned his dental degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry in 2008. Since then, he’s become a member of the ADA, the Florida Dental Association, and the Ocala Metropolitan Rotary Club. To report a dental emergency or learn about his practice, contact him at (352) 622-3236 or visit his website.