If your teeth struggle to handle hot and cold foods, it is an indication that there is an underlying issue with your teeth, which means your tooth hurts when putting pressure on it.
But why is this? There are many reasons for this, and it shouldn’t be left to chance. Whilst there are ways to cope with the pain, it is an indication that there is an underlying issue with the tooth that needs to be addressed.
Understanding the signs can give you a head start on understanding the next steps you need to take.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
What do we mean by tooth sensitivity? It simply means pain and discomfort in the mouth. The discomfort may be temporary or longer than usual. Either way, the dentist should see any sort of pain, no matter the duration.
There are many reasons for tooth sensitivity, which are broken down further below:
- Gum Recession – Gum recession is when the gums pull back from the roots of your teeth. When this happens, your teeth become further exposed to bacteria, which can lead to infection of the teeth and even in your bloodstream.
- Cracked Filling – There are three typical signs of a cracked or broken filling. If you feel sudden pain in your tooth under hot and cold pressures, biting down on something too hard causes a crack or a crack to catch on surrounding tissue.
- Worn Out Enamel – Enamel erosion can occur for teeth grinding, acid reflux, low saliva flow, and high bacteria build-up. When your enamel wears out, these will bacteria thrive inside the mouth, causing further issues for your smile.
- Damaged Nerves – Nerve damage typically occurs when the dental pulp in the centre of the tooth becomes exposed, causing sensitivity from the underlying nerves.
- Dental Cavities – Cavities appear when a tiny opening or hole is deeply found in the tooth’s centre. Back molars are always at risk of this.
- Crown or Filling Too High – Occlusion describes how teeth bite down together. The pressure of biting down on the tooth can cause instant damage and sensitivity.
How Can I Treat Tooth Pain?
Here are some remedies to help you treat tooth pain. However, it is important to note that this will not resolve the underlying problem, and you will be required to consult the dentist so the dentist can examine the problem and recommend further treatment.
Here are ways to treat and limit tooth pain:
- Continue to brush and floss your teeth every day, especially after eating
- Alter your diet to softer foods such as boiled potato, soup and vegetables
- Gargle the mouth with saltwater
- Apply a cold compress against the affected area on the cheek, such as a pack of peas or ice wrapped up in a towel
- Over the counter medication such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen
Are There Any Complications With Tooth Pain?
It is important to consult the dentist to address the underlying problem quickly. Unhealthy teeth can damage the underlying tissue, causing long-term irreversible issues. It can also impact overall mouth functioning.
There are a variety of treatments available to address tooth pain. Consult the dentist as soon as possible as there is an added danger that the tooth can get progressively worse.