Why Do My Teeth Hurt?
Tooth pain can stem from various causes, ranging from minor irritations to serious dental problems. Let's explore some common reasons why your teeth might hurt.
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Sensitive Teeth: Worn-down tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots are frequent culprits. This sensitivity is often triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks, or even cold air. [Source: Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic]
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Dental Caries (Cavities): Cavities are holes in your teeth caused by tooth decay. The pain can range from mild to severe, depending on the cavity's size and location. [Source: WebMD]
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Cracked or Chipped Teeth: A crack or chip can expose the inner layers of your tooth, leading to sensitivity and pain. [Source: WebMD]
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Worn Fillings: Old or damaged fillings can allow bacteria to reach the tooth's inner layers, causing pain and infection. [Source: WebMD]
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Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis): Inflammation and infection of the gums can cause pain, swelling, and bleeding. [Source: Mesa Street Dental]
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Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Grinding or clenching your teeth, often unconsciously during sleep, can cause pain, jaw soreness, and even damage to your teeth. [Source: UT Knoxville Dentists]
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Dental Infections (Abscess): A severe infection of the tooth or surrounding tissue can cause intense pain and swelling. [Source: WebMD]
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Sinus Infections: Pain in your upper teeth might be referred pain from a sinus infection due to the proximity of your teeth and nasal sinuses. [Source: WebMD]
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Tooth Sensitivity from Teeth Whitening: Some teeth whitening products can increase tooth sensitivity. [Source: Unknown Source, but mentioned in introduction]
Less Common Causes
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Exposure to Extreme Temperatures: Sudden changes in temperature can trigger pain in sensitive teeth. [Source: Healthline]
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Sound Vibrations: High-frequency sound vibrations can cause the water-filled tubes in your teeth to vibrate, leading to discomfort. [Source: Queensboro Plaza Dental]
When to See a Dentist
Persistent or severe tooth pain warrants a visit to your dentist. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Ignoring tooth pain can lead to more serious problems.
