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Momentary sensitivity to hot or cold foods
Possible Problem
If the discomfort lasts only moments, sensitivity to hot and
cold foods generally does not signal a problem. The sensitivity
may be caused by a loose filling or by minimal gum recession
which exposes small areas of the root surface.
What To Do
Try using toothpastes made for sensitive teeth. Brush up and
down with a soft brush; brushing sideways wears away exposed
root surfaces. If this is unsuccessful, see your dentist.
Sensitivity to hot or cold foods after dental
treatment
Possible Problem
Dental work may inflame the pulp, inside the tooth, causing
temporary sensitivity.
What To Do
Wait four to six weeks. If the pain persists or worsens, see
your dentist.
Sharp pain when biting down on food
Possible Problem
There are several possible causes of this type of pain: decay,
a loose filling, or a crack in the tooth. There may be damage
to the pulp tissue inside the tooth.
What To Do
See a dentist for evaluation. If the problem is a cracked tooth,
your dentist may send you to an endodontist. Cracked tooth pain
comes from damage to the inner soft tissue of the tooth, the
pulp. Endodontists are dentists who specialize in pulp-related
procedures. Endodontic treatment, also known as root canal treatment,
can relieve that pain.
Lingering pain after eating hot or cold foods
Possible Problem
This probably means the pulp has been damaged by deep decay
or physical trauma.
What To Do
See your endodontist to save the tooth with root canal treatment.
Constant and severe pain and pressure, swelling
of gum, and sensitivity to touch
Possible Problem
A tooth may have become abscessed, causing the surrounding bone
to become infected.
What To Do
See you endodontist for evaluation and treatment to relieve
the pain and save the tooth. Take over-the-counter analgesics
until you see the endodontist.
Dull ache and pressure in upper teeth and
jaw
Possible Problem
The pain of a sinus headache is often felt in the face and teeth.
Grinding of teeth, a condition known as bruxism, can also cause
this type of ache.
What To Do
For sinus headache, try over-the-counter analgesics or sinus
medicine. For bruxism, consult your dentist. If pain is severe
and chronic, see your physician or endodontist for evaluation.
Chronic pain in head, neck, or ear
Possible Problem
Sometimes pulp-damaged teeth cause pain in other parts of the
head and neck, but other dental or medical problems may be responsible.
What To Do
See your endodontist for evaluation. If the problem is not related
to the tooth, your endodontist will refer you to an appropriate
dental specialist or a physician.
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