Tooth Pain: Causes, Relief & When to See a Dentist

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Tooth Pain Causes and Relief

Tooth pain can range from a mild ache to sharp, unbearable discomfort, often affecting daily life. While occasional sensitivity might not be a concern, persistent or severe tooth pain could signal an underlying dental issue. Understanding the causes of tooth pain and how to relieve it can help you decide when to seek professional care.

Common Causes of Tooth Pain

1. Cavities & Tooth Decay

A leading cause of tooth pain, cavities occur when bacteria break down enamel, exposing the sensitive inner layers of the tooth. Symptoms include:
✔️ Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
✔️ Sharp pain when chewing
✔️ Visible holes or dark spots on the tooth

2. Gum Disease

Inflamed or receding gums can expose tooth roots, causing dull aching or sensitivity. Gingivitis (early gum disease) is reversible, but if left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis, leading to severe pain and even tooth loss.

3. Tooth Sensitivity

When you experience sharp pain when eating ice cream or drinking hot tea, you may have tooth sensitivity. This is often caused by worn enamel, exposed dentin, or receding gums.

4. Tooth Abscess (Infection)

A tooth abscess is a severe infection that develops inside the tooth or gums, leading to:
✔️ Intense, throbbing pain
✔️ Swelling in the face or jaw
✔️ Fever and bad breath

A dental abscess requires urgent treatment to prevent complications.

5. Cracked or Fractured Tooth

A cracked tooth can cause intermittent pain, especially when biting down. Cracks can result from injury, grinding, or biting hard foods and may require a filling, crown, or root canal.

6. Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth often don’t have enough room to emerge properly, causing pain, swelling, and gum infections. In many cases, removal is the best solution.

Tooth Pain Relief at Home

In case you can’t see a dentist immediately, try these temporary remedies:

Rinse with Warm Salt Water – Helps reduce swelling and bacteria.
Use a Cold Compress – Apply to the cheek for 15 minutes to numb pain.
Take Pain Relievers – Over-the-counter ibuprofen or paracetamol can help.
Avoid Trigger Foods – Stay away from very hot, cold, or sugary foods.

When to See a Dentist

If tooth pain lasts more than two days or worsens over time, should not be ignored. Seek urgent dental care if you experience:
🚨 Severe pain or swelling
🚨 Fever or difficulty swallowing
🚨 Bleeding or pus around a tooth

We hope this information helps you understand the common tooth pain causes and relief.

Book a Dental Appointment Today

If you’re experiencing tooth pain in Alfreton, Swanwick, or nearby, our team at Amber Valley Dental Practice can help. From fillings to root canals, we provide expert treatment to relieve your pain and protect your smile.

📞 Call us now on 01773 540648 or book online to schedule your appointment.

📍 Location: Amber Valley Dental Practice, Swanwick, Derbyshire
🌐 Website: https://ambervalleydental.co.uk
📞 Phone: 01773 540648 or book online.

Amber Valley Dental Practice Won Best Dental Emergencies Practice in Derbyshire!

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Principal Dentist

Dr Nadia Duarte

Nadia qualified as a dentist in Portugal in 2008 and she has been working in the UK since 2010. Nadia has been a dentist at Amber Valley Dental practice since 2013 providing dental care to thousands of patients in the local community.

While working in a busy practice environment, Nadia gained a wealth of experience during various post-graduate courses which included a year long certified course in Restorative Dental Practice from world renowned Eastman Dental Institute, London (2012) and a postgraduate certificate in Medical education from Staffordshire University (2020). Nadia has also completed a Master of Science degree in Dental Implantology from the University of Manchester (2017). In addition to all these, Nadia has attended several hands-on courses in Facial Aesthetics and Teeth Straightening.