- Cause: As mentioned, wisdom teeth can hurt when they are impacted, infected, or erupting. If it’s your wisdom tooth causing discomfort, it might be pressing against other teeth, or there might be an infection in the gums around the tooth.
- Relief: You can try saltwater rinses, cold compresses, and over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen). If the pain doesn’t subside or worsens, visiting a dentist is essential to determine if the tooth needs to be removed.
2. Cavities or Tooth Decay
- Cause: Cavities or decay cause pain when the enamel is worn away, exposing the softer layers of the tooth. This can lead to sharp, throbbing pain, especially when eating or drinking something sweet, hot, or cold.
- Relief: If you suspect a cavity, visit a dentist for a filling or treatment. Meanwhile, use desensitizing toothpaste for temporary relief.
3. Gum Infection or Abscess
- Cause: An infection in the gums or around the tooth can cause a sharp or throbbing pain, often accompanied by swelling and bad breath.
- Relief: Saltwater rinses and applying a cold compress can help temporarily. However, this is something that requires professional care. A dentist may need to drain an abscess or treat the infection with antibiotics.
4. Gum Disease
- Cause: If your gums are inflamed or infected, it can lead to soreness or bleeding when brushing, flossing, or chewing.
- Relief: Good oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash) can prevent gum disease. A dentist might recommend a deep cleaning if it’s more advanced.
5. Teeth Sensitivity
- Cause: Tooth sensitivity can occur when the enamel wears down or gums recede, exposing the sensitive parts of the tooth. This can cause pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Relief: Try using a desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride treatments to strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity.
When to See a Dentist
- If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by swelling, it’s crucial to get checked by a dentist.
- Swelling, fever, or pus could indicate an infection that requires immediate attention.
In the meantime, try gentle pain relief like cold compresses, saltwater rinses, or over-the-counter pain relievers. These can help manage the discomfort until you can get to a dentist. Would you like more tips for managing the pain at home, or do you need help finding a dentist near you?