Pain

Sudden tooth pain can be distressing, catching you off guard and leaving you searching for answers. While it’s easy to brush off minor discomfort, tooth pain can be a sign of underlying issues that need prompt attention. This article will guide you through ten common causes of sudden tooth pain and when it’s time to consult a toothache doctor in Singapore.

1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)

Tooth decay is one of the most frequent causes of sudden pain. As cavities form, they penetrate deeper into the tooth’s layers, affecting the nerves and causing sharp or throbbing pain, especially when eating or drinking.

• Symptoms: Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Treatment: Fillings or crowns.

2. Gum Infection (Gingivitis or Periodontitis)

Gum infections are not just about bleeding or swollen gums. When left untreated, they can lead to severe pain in the surrounding teeth due to the inflammation affecting the roots.

• Symptoms: Swollen gums, bad breath, and tooth pain.
• Treatment: Professional cleaning, scaling, and antibiotics.

3. Tooth Abscess

An abscess forms when a bacterial infection creates a pocket of pus at the root of the tooth. This can cause intense, sharp pain that may radiate to the jaw or ear.

• Symptoms: Severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity to pressure.
• Treatment: Root canal treatment or extraction.

4. Cracked or Fractured Tooth

A cracked tooth can cause sudden tooth pain, especially when biting down. Sometimes the crack is not visible, but the pain will occur due to the pressure on the tooth.

• Symptoms: Pain when chewing or biting.
• Treatment: Bonding, crowns, or root canal.

5. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Teeth grinding, particularly at night, can cause significant wear on your teeth and lead to pain over time. The constant grinding may cause small fractures or make the teeth more sensitive.

• Symptoms: Jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, and toothaches.
• Treatment: Nightguards and stress management.

6. Sinus Infection

A sinus infection can often be mistaken for a toothache. The sinuses are located close to your upper teeth, and pressure or infection in the sinuses can cause pain that feels like it’s coming from your teeth.

• Symptoms: Facial pain, congestion, and tooth pain in the upper jaw.
• Treatment: Decongestants and antibiotics.

7. Erupting Wisdom Teeth

When wisdom teeth are erupting, they can press against neighbouring teeth or grow at an awkward angle, causing pain. This is particularly common in young adults.

• Symptoms: Pain at the back of the mouth or jaw.
• Treatment: Extraction of the wisdom tooth.

8. Tooth Sensitivity

If you experience sharp pain when consuming hot or cold foods, it may be due to tooth sensitivity. This is often caused by enamel erosion, exposing the underlying dentin.

• Symptoms: Sudden pain with temperature changes.
• Treatment: Desensitising toothpaste or fluoride treatments.

9. Dental Trauma

An injury to the mouth, such as a fall or hit, can cause sudden tooth pain. Even if the tooth looks intact, trauma can lead to damage or inflammation of the tooth’s nerve.

• Symptoms: Immediate pain after an injury.
• Treatment: Dental examination and, if necessary, root canal or bonding.

10. Loose Fillings or Crowns

If a filling or crown becomes loose, it can expose the sensitive inner parts of the tooth, leading to sudden pain. This can be triggered when eating or drinking.

• Symptoms: Pain around the treated tooth, sensitivity, and discomfort when chewing.
• Treatment: Replacing or repairing the filling or crown.

When to See a Toothache Doctor in Singapore

Sudden tooth pain can be more than just an inconvenience—it can signal a serious issue that requires immediate dental care. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe pain, it’s time to visit a toothache doctor in Singapore. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent further damage and ensure your oral health is in top shape. 

Tooth pain can arise from a variety of causes, ranging from simple sensitivity to serious infections. Ignoring the pain may lead to worsening conditions, so it’s essential to identify the cause and seek appropriate treatment promptly. Wellness Dental Studio is a leading expert in helping patients find relief from their persistent toothache.