THERE ARE MANY different types of tooth pain, and they mean very different things. This is why it’s important to be specific when describing any discomfort to the dentist.
Not All Temperature Sensitivity Is the Same
A brief sensitivity to temperature changes usually isn’t a huge problem, and tooth sensitivity toothpaste should minimize it.
Temperature sensitivity after dental treatment can happen when the dental pulp becomes inflamed during the healing process. See the dentist if it doesn’t go away on its own.
Lingering pain after eating hot or cold foods could mean the pulp has been damaged by decay or trauma. In such a case, endodontic treatment may be the tooth’s only chance.
Dull Pain and Chronic Aches
A dull ache in the upper teeth and jaw could be soreness from chronic teeth grinding, so let the dentist know.
Chronic head, neck, or ear pain is sometimes caused by teeth with damaged pulp, in which case, it’s a job for the endodontist!
Major Toothaches
Sharp pain when chewing could mean tooth decay, a loose filling, or a cracked tooth. The dentist might send a patient to the endodontist for this if there’s pulp damage.
Severe pain and pressure, swollen gums, and sensitivity often means an abscess, where the bone and gum tissue around a tooth has become infected too. Take over-the-counter pain medication to manage it, and get to the endodontist so we can relieve the pain and save the tooth.
