Tooth Pain Guide

Momentary sensitivity to hot or cold foods or liquids

Possible Problem

If the discomfort lasts only moments, sensitivity to hot and cold foods generally does not signal a problem. The sensitivity may be caused by a loose filling or by minimal gum recession which exposes small areas of the root surface.

What To Do

Try using toothpastes made for sensitive teeth. Brush up and down with a soft brush; brushing sideways wears away exposed root surfaces. If this is unsuccessful, see your dentist.

Sensitivity to hot or cold foods or liquids after dental treatment

Possible Problem

Dental work may inflame the pulp, inside the tooth, causing temporary sensitivity.

What To Do

Wait four to six weeks. If the pain persists or worsens, see your dentist.

Sharp pain when biting down on food

Possible Problem

There are several possible causes of this type of pain: decay, a loose filling, or a crack in the tooth. There may be damage to the pulp tissue inside the tooth.

What To Do

See a dentist for evaluation. If the problem is a cracked tooth, your dentist may send you to an endodontist. Cracked tooth pain comes from damage to the inner soft tissue of the tooth, the pulp. Endodontists are dentists who specialize in pulp-related procedures. Endodontic treatment, also known as root canal treatment, can relieve that pain.

Lingering pain after eating/drinking hot or cold foods/liquids

Possible Problem

This probably means the pulp has been damaged by deep decay or physical trauma.

What To Do

See your endodontist to save the tooth with root canal treatment.

Constant and severe pain and pressure, swelling of gum, and sensitivity to touch

Possible Problem

A tooth may have become abscessed, causing the surrounding bone to become infected.

What To Do

See your endodontist for evaluation and treatment to relieve the pain and save the tooth. Take over-the-counter analgesics until you see the endodontist.

Dull ache and pressure in upper teeth and jaw

Possible Problem

The pain of a sinus headache is often felt in the face and teeth. Grinding of teeth, a condition known as bruxism, can also cause this type of ache.

What To Do

For sinus headache, try over-the-counter analgesics or sinus medicine. For bruxism, consult your dentist. If pain is severe and chronic, see your physician or endodontist for evaluation.

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1570 Fishinger Rd. Columbus, OH 43221
Email us at: office@uaendo.com
Give us a call at: (614) 459-2000