Dental pain is ranked as one of the most painful experiences in life. There are a few conditions that may contribute to dental discomfort and pain.

Unfortunately, most of them are localized problems which means that the dental pain will only be  relieved after the source of the problem has been eliminated.

The causes of dental pain are as followed:

1. Dental Cavities -The most common cause of dental discomfort or pain. When the tooth structure is under attack by acid produced by bacteria, some forms of dental discomfort will be experienced. As the condition worsen, the damage will proceed into the dentine layer of tooth, therefore the level discomfort and pain may increase. Severe dental pain will be experienced when the damage of tooth structure is close the nerve bundle located in the pulp chamber of the tooth. Root Canal Treatment is likely the treatment of choice when the damage extended into the pulp chamber.

2. Tooth injuries – In a trauma incident, tooth and surrounding structure (gum & bone) may be injured. Minor injuries will recover in a few days. However, if tooth structure is damaged (tooth fracture) or surrounding bone is fractured,  immediate attention will be required by dental professionals. Damage tooth will cause discomfort like sensitivity to hot or cold drinks to severe pain if the dentine layer or the dental nerve bundle is exposed.

3. Gum diseases – Very common condition among patients who neglect oral hygiene and routine dental check up. The most common sign of gum disease is gum bleeding. If the condition is left untreated, it  may lead to dental bone resorption and subsequently increase mobility of  tooth and finally lost of tooth. As the bacteria is an living organism, the gum disease condition not only affect a single tooth but all the dentition.

4. Sinus infection -Infection of the sinus (air space behind our nose) can cause dental pain. As the proximity of the sinus is right next to the root of upper teeth, it can presented as severe toothaches on upper teeth which cannot be localized. (all upper teeth may experience pain). Dental professionals will be able to diagnose the cause of the pain, if it  is not from dentition then they will  refer the  patient to Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT) surgeon for treatment.

5. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) – Temporomandibular Joint is the junction between the mandible and the skull. There are lots of nerve fibres that are close to the joint. Any disorders of this joint may present itself as dental pain. This joint disorder will require attention from dental specialists for management.

When you experience dental discomfort or pain, it is wise to seek professional help. Most of the dental pains will not relieve itself without any dental treatments. The longer the delay for dental treatment, the more likely the condition will worsen and thus ending up with larger dental bill.