You’re trying to take a sip of a cup of coffee, and the next thing you know, a pain shoots through your teeth.
“Why do my teeth feel sore?” It’s infuriating. The discomfort may be bearable at first, but it can become a pain you cannot bear anymore if not dealt with.
Toothache is unpredictable. It can strike you anywhere and is most often impossible to anticipate, but in this article, you’ll discover why your teeth ache and, more importantly, how to recover from it fast.
Read on, and we’ll have you back to normal.
Common Causes of Sore Teeth
Anybody who’s ever winced over a cold drink will be familiar with tooth sensitivity. It’s that sharp, stinging sensation when you bite down on something too hot, too cold, or too sweet.
Tooth sensitivity hurts. It happens when your tooth enamel erodes, revealing the sensitive layers beneath. You don’t even know it, but everyday habits like brushing too hard, grinding teeth, or drinking acidic drinks can speed up enamel loss.
If your teeth hurt when you eat ice cream or drink hot coffee, then you’re suffering from sensitive teeth. The good news is you don’t have to endure this pain for the rest of your life. With proper care and treatment, you can have that sensitivity in check and enjoy your favorite foods once again.
Tooth Decay and Cavity – Silent Pain
The dull ache and the pain when you touch one particular tooth are potential signs that a cavity is growing. Tooth decay is a quiet little culprit. You might not notice at first, but cavities will weaken your teeth and cause pain in the long run. If the cavity isn’t treated, the cavity can grow into an infection, which makes eating or speaking hurt.
And here’s the catch: cavities don’t necessarily hurt right away, which is why checkups with your dentist are so important. Catching them early means faster and simpler repairs—and less pain for you in the long term.
Gum Disease – The Silent Menace
It’s not just your teeth that ache; your gums can ache, too. If your gums ache and are inflamed, it may be a sign that you have gum disease. It starts as gingivitis—mild inflammation and swelling—but if you don’t do something about it, it can become much more serious.
Gum disease can make your teeth ache when you eat, and it can even make your teeth fall out. Therefore, taking care of your mouth and its oral health isn’t just about your teeth—it’s about your gums, too.
Other Reasons for Toothache
Teeth Grinding – A Stress-Induced Nightmare
Did you ever wake up with sore teeth or a sore mouth? It could be because you grind your teeth during the night and don’t even realize it. It probably happens when you’re stressed, anxious, or even just tired.
Grinding will eventually wear down your teeth, making them sore and causing jaw pain and even headaches. You could also wake up with sore teeth, but they appear to feel better throughout the day.
If that is the case, then you may have to do something. A nightguard, something your dentist can give you, can assist in protecting your teeth and relieve strain in your jaw. Naturally, reducing stress is a great help in getting rid of the grind.
Tooth Abscess – The Worst Type of Pain
A tooth abscess is serious. It’s an infection that results in a deep, throbbing pain in your tooth. The ache can radiate to your jaw, neck, or even to your ear and can worsen when you’re chewing or biting down on your tooth.
Swelling or an unpleasant taste may also be noticed in your mouth. Tooth abscesses should be treated immediately by a dentist since they result in severe infections that can affect your overall well-being.
If you believe you have an abscessed tooth, don’t hesitate. The pain will only get worse and worse, and the infection will continue to spread. Call your dentist right away!
Recent Dental Work – The Aftereffect
It’s completely common to experience pain after having a filling, a crown, or even braces placed. Your teeth and gums are getting used to the adjustment, and it may hurt for a little while.
If your teeth ache after you’ve been to the dentist, don’t worry too much—it will go away in a couple of days. But if the pain lasts or if you experience stabbing pain in the area of the dental work, it’s always safest to follow up with your dentist to ensure everything is healing the way it should.
How to Cure Toothache Quickly?
When a toothache hits, the last thing you want to do is sit around waiting for a trip to the dentist. There are a couple of things you can do at home to make the pain bearable in the meantime, though.
First, saltwater rinses. This old reliable lowers inflammation and kills bacteria. Simply combine a teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water and swish for approximately 30 seconds. It can bring immediate relief and a bit of peace until professional treatment is obtained.
Another temporary solution is a cold compress. Place an ice pack covered in a cloth on the outside of your cheek for 10-15 minutes a time. It numbs the pain and makes the swelling go down. It’s ideal if you just want a little respite before reaching the dentist. And don’t forget over-the-counter pain medication. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be a lifesaver when it comes to dulling the pain.
Preventing Tooth Soreness in the Future
- Good Oral Hygiene Habits: Regular daily oral hygiene is the best protection for tooth sensitivity. Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss frequently, and mouthwash to keep your mouth clean. Be careful about how you brush too. Brushing too hard can erode your enamel and cause your teeth to become even more sensitive.
- Diet and Nutrition: What you eat can damage or benefit your teeth. Calcium-rich foods like milk make your enamel strong. Acidic drinks and sweet foods dissolve enamel, exposing your teeth to sensitivity. Avoid drinking too much soda and citrus juice since they weaken your teeth.
- Handling Teeth Grinding and Stress: If you grind your teeth at night, a nightguard can be custom-fitted by a dentist to safeguard them. Reducing stress can also decrease grinding during the day. Stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, and the avoidance of caffeine can decrease your overall stress and prevent teeth grinding.
When to Visit a Dentist for Sore Teeth
Although home remedies are best for temporary relief, there comes a time when seeing a dentist is necessary. If the pain does not subside after a few days, worsens, or spreads to other areas in your mouth, you should see a dentist. Ignoring tooth pain, especially if it is severe, can lead to more severe problems like infection or even tooth loss.
If you’ve just had dental treatment, such as fillings or crowns, and the pain continues for a few days, a follow-up visit to the dentist is a good idea as well. Your dentist can check for any issues with your new dental work and help ensure everything heals properly.
Finally, if you experience swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth—indications of an abscess or infection—seek help right away. A tooth infection can be fatal if not treated, so don’t delay in seeking the assistance you require.
Conclusion
Keep in mind, if the pain persists or increases, your best friend is your dentist. The sooner you act, the quicker you’ll return to a pain-free, confident smile. Don’t wait too long—tend to your teeth today for a brighter, more comfortable tomorrow.
FAQs
Why are my teeth sore after eating?
Teeth sensitivity after eating originates from tooth sensitivity, cavities, or gum inflammation. If you realize that specific foods cause the pain, it means that something is amiss with your gums or teeth.
How long can you safely wait before going to a dentist for a toothache?
If the pain lasts more than two days, or if it is severe, you need to visit a dentist. Delaying a dental problem may result in more complex problems in the future, so do not wait!
What is the quickest way to treat a toothache at home?
Cold compresses, salt water rinses, and over-the-counter pain medications can help ease the pain temporarily. They will not solve the underlying problem, however, which is why going to a dentist for long-term relief is necessary.
Can gum disease make my teeth feel sore?
Yes, sore teeth are caused by gum disease, especially if gums are inflamed or infected. However, proper oral care and treatment when they begin gives gum disease little chance to progress into chronic conditions.
