Dental issues tend to progress over time, so regular visits to the Hopedale dentist in IL are key to identifying them quickly and giving prompt treatment. If you haven’t received dental care in a while, issues like cavities, gum disease, and frequent toothaches can occur—even with good oral hygiene.
Oftentimes, dental pain comes and goes, making it easy to dismiss at its beginning stages. However, without treatment, the discomfort will only get worse over time. To help you find the care you need, here we’ll explore some potential causes of your intermittent pain.
Understanding Tooth Pain
Tooth pain is a common dental issue that can be caused by several things, including tooth trauma, gum disease, tooth decay, and teeth grinding. It can be intermittent or continuous and range from mild to severe.
Sometimes, issues outside the tooth, like sinusitis or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, are the source of discomfort rather than the tooth itself. Additionally, it may be accompanied by various symptoms, including bleeding gums, a dull ache that doesn't go away, and sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages.
Particularly, tooth pain that comes and goes is often caused by:
Tooth Decay and Cavities
Tooth decay starts when oral bacteria create acids that break down tooth enamel. If treatment is not received, this may spread to the tooth's inner layers and cause discomfort. Although cavities can be avoided with routine dental cleanings, you should see your dentist if you experience unexpected pain after consuming sugary food.
Gum Disease and Periodontal Issues
Periodic tooth pain may be a symptom of gum disease, particularly in its early stages. This condition, frequently accompanied by bleeding or swollen gums, needs careful attention as it can lead to receding gums, tooth loss, and even cardiovascular problems.
Dental Abscess and Infected Pulp
When bacteria accumulate in the tooth or gums, it can cause a dental abscess, which is extremely painful. Likewise, an infected pulp is a serious problem that must not be disregarded. Swelling around the afflicted area or an unpleasant taste in your mouth are possible symptoms.
Some patients also begin to experience tooth pain after getting a cavity filled because the infection has already reached the tooth’s root. Seeking immediate dental care when observing any of these symptoms is key, as the infection can progress and even cause jawbone loss over time.
Home Remedies for Intermittent Tooth Pain
While you wait for your dental appointment, there are some natural remedies you can use to relieve tooth pain, such as:
- Saltwater Rinse: Salt is a natural disinfectant, so using it as mouthwash can reduce inflammation, help heal oral wounds, and loosen food particles and debris that may be stuck between your teeth.
- Cold Compress: A cold compress can help ease pain, particularly if your toothache results from trauma.
- Clove: For centuries, people have used clove to treat toothaches. The oil contains eugenol, a natural antiseptic, which effectively numbs the pain and reduces inflammation.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: If the discomfort is severe, your dentist might suggest over-the-counter pain relievers to help you manage it until your next appointment.
Find a Hopedale Dentist in IL and Get an Accurate Diagnosis
Various factors can cause tooth pain, making it difficult to diagnose and treat. Still, intermittent tooth pain that comes and goes is often a sign of a more serious underlying issue.
Addressing this discomfort alongside a professional is key to avoiding further damage. By understanding what’s causing pain, we will look for potential solutions together. So, don’t put off getting the dental care you need—call Smalltown Dental to schedule an appointment!
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