If you suddenly feel a temporary shock-like pain or twinges in your teeth from time to time, it’s best to investigate. There are many reasons for tooth pain, and some of them are quite easy to overlook. The AAE (American Academy of Endodontists) defines tooth sensitivity or pain as a brief sensation brought on by a stimulus like cold or heat, which affects exposed dentin- the layer beneath the white enamel of your teeth.
Note that dentin has a protective cover that acts as a buffer for the nerves in your teeth. Meaning you’ll feel pain every time there’s stimulation if this buffer becomes damaged. With that in mind, here are some of the most unexpected causes of toothaches.
You Grind or Clench Your Teeth
Medically known as bruxism, clenching, gnashing, or grinding your teeth is a condition that occurs unconsciously either at night (sleep bruxism) or during the day (awake bruxism). Many endodontists consider sleep bruxism a sleep-related movement disorder.
While mild bruxism may not need any treatment, it’s best to see a dentist for frequent and severe bruxism as it may cause headaches, jaw disorders, damaged teeth, etc. Now, get this, one of the most common symptoms of bruxism is tooth sensitivity or pain.
You Brush Your Teeth With Too Much Pressure
Without a doubt, brushing your teeth too hard causes tooth sensitivity by wearing down the enamel to expose dentin. Also, brushing for too long or with a hard-bristle brush will cause tooth pain, especially if you have thin enamel. If you suspect that how you brush is the problem, try going for a softer brush and brushing teeth for no longer than two minutes.
Abuse of Mouthwash
Yes, you read that right. Some mouthwash products contain acids that can extensively damage dentin. Mind you, with exposed dentin, any acid, cold, heat, or even sticky substance that gets into your teeth will cause pain. So avoid using over-the-counter alcoholic mouthwashes for too long. Instead, consider going for neutral fluoride mouthwashes.
You Have Sinusitis
Sinus inflammation (sinusitis) or sinus infection can lead to tooth pain. If anything, this is one of the biggest, yet the most unheard-of, reasons for tooth pain. The pain from sinusitis mostly affects the upper rear teeth and occurs when fluid enters and puts pressure on your sinuses. If you feel your teeth hurting more when you lean over (with your head down), it’s probably a sinus infection.
You Open Different Things With Your Teeth
There are so many ways you can use your teeth as tools. Opening a can of soda, ripping bags open, chewing on plastic, you name it. Even so, studies show that using teeth for such purposes eventually cracks your tooth enamel. It might be the reason that you’re feeling a sudden but temporary sharp pain.
Final Thoughts
While cavities are arguably the most popular reason for mouth aches, there are loads of other causes that may make your teeth painful. So be sure to consult your dentist if you’re not sure about the source of your pain. Over-the-counter medicines treat only the symptoms and not the underlying issue.
If you are located near the Pleasant View, UT area and are experiencing tooth pain, give us a call at Mountain View Dental. We have an experienced, friendly staff and a modern, comfortable office awaiting you. Schedule your appointment today.
