The pain you feel in between two teeth is often caused by gum disease.
When your gums are affected by conditions like gum disease, they can swell. This swelling puts pressure on the surrounding tissues and nerves, which can result in a sensation of radiating pain between teeth.
Understanding the Cause: Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common issue that affects the tissues supporting your teeth. The earliest and mildest stage is called gingivitis.
- How Swelling Causes Pain: As the reference states, when the gums swell due to inflammation, this swelling can lead to pain that feels like it's coming from between the teeth. It's not necessarily the tooth itself hurting, but the irritated and inflamed gum tissue in that specific area.
Addressing the Pain
While seeing a dentist is crucial for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, there are steps you can take for immediate relief and to help reverse early symptoms:
- Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing with saltwater can help reduce inflammation and clean the area between the teeth, providing temporary relief from the pain caused by swollen gums.
- Improve Oral Hygiene: In the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), increasing your focus on brushing and flossing can often reverse the symptoms. Thoroughly cleaning the areas between your teeth helps remove plaque and reduce gum inflammation.
Key Takeaway: Pain felt between teeth is frequently linked to inflamed or swollen gums, often a sign of gum disease. Simple home remedies can offer temporary relief, but professional dental care is essential for effective treatment.
