Is that tooth just sensitive, or is it a toothache?

Have you ever felt an uncomfortable zing after sipping an icy drink or biting into something sweet? That familiar discomfort could be a sign of tooth sensitivity, but it could also be tooth pain, which indicates a deeper issue.

Tooth pain—a toothache—is when you feel consistent mild or intense pain in or around a tooth. It can appear unexpectedly when you bite down on something. Tooth sensitivity is milder, and it can impact more than one tooth or even your entire mouth. 

Sensitivity and pain may feel similar, but they have different implications for your dental health. If you understand the difference between these sensations, you’ll know when it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist and how to explain your oral health concerns to them.

What is tooth sensitivity?

Many people experience tooth sensitivity daily. Sensitivity can happen when the protective outer layer of your teeth (the enamel) wears away. The dentin underneath becomes exposed, leaving it vulnerable to various stimuli.

You may feel this sensitivity during everyday actions like sipping hot coffee, enjoying an ice-cold treat, or eating something sweet. You may experience a quick, sharp discomfort that usually disappears as fast as it appears.

This fleeting twinge of pain is often linked to enamel erosion and gum recession. Enamel can be worn away by brushing too hard, taking certain medications, and eating and drinking acidic foods and beverages. Gum recession exposes the tooth’s root, which has no enamel layer, leaving it unprotected from external stimuli.

What is tooth pain?

Tooth pain is ongoing and severe. A toothache might be painful enough that it interferes with your daily life. This type of discomfort often points to a serious problem that requires immediate attention.

Types of Tooth Pain

Not all toothaches are the same. There are several types of tooth pain you could experience, each with a different cause and required treatment.

A dull, persistent ache is the most common type of tooth pain. This sensation can hit you when you have something stuck in your gums or wedged between your teeth. However, it could also be a sign that you grind your teeth or have an abscessed tooth. 

There is no way to ignore a sharp pain, and you shouldn’t. This type of discomfort indicates that something is wrong with the tooth’s surface. For example, you may have a loose crown or filling that must be fixed.

When you have a throbbing toothache, you need immediate attention from your dentist, especially if you have other symptoms like bleeding gums or discoloration. Throbbing pain may indicate a damaged tooth, and you cannot use at-home tooth pain remedies to ease it. The pain will continue to get worse, so contact your dentist right away.

What causes a toothache?

There are several reasons you may experience an unbearable toothache:

• Cavities
• Damaged fillings
• Dental abscesses
• Fractured teeth
• Loose crowns
• Infected gums
• Cracked teeth
• Periodontal disease

Tooth pain stemming from nerve damage occurs when the innermost layer of the tooth (the pulp) becomes irritated or damaged. This soft tissue is where you find the nerves and blood vessels, so it is more sensitive. 

If you have sharp or continuous tooth nerve pain, you may require urgent dental care. Consult your dentist to determine the best treatment and increase the chances of saving the tooth. 

How can you tell the difference?

Knowing whether you’re dealing with tooth sensitivity or tooth pain can help you get the best treatment. A sensitive tooth will react to a stimulus, such as a hot or cold beverage. The discomfort will usually disappear once you remove the stimulus. 

Unlike sensitivity, tooth pain is ongoing and often worsens over time. It can be isolated to a specific spot or a small area. It may feel like a constant ache or a throbbing sensation that grows more intense. 

For many, tooth pain is an all-consuming sensation that disrupts daily activities. It can also be accompanied by swelling or discomfort near the gums. 

Call your dentist if you can’t decide whether your discomfort is pain or sensitivity. They can get to the root of the problem and recommend the best solution. Sometimes, this could be as simple as reducing sugar intake. However, you may need a more advanced treatment for serious dental issues.

Professional Treatment for Any Type of Tooth Discomfort

You don’t have to wait until your tooth pain becomes unbearable. When you need to know how to get rid of tooth pain, the solution is simple: Schedule an appointment with a dentist who practices family dental in Greenville, South Carolina. At Monroe Family Dentistry, our team offers remedies for every type of pain, from dull aches to sharp jabs. We’ll find the cause of your discomfort and design a treatment plan that provides immediate relief. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.