My Tooth Hurts When I Touch It With My Finger
Tooth pain can be excruciating and can greatly affect our daily lives. One common complaint is experiencing pain when touching a tooth with a finger. This can be a sign of an underlying dental issue that requires attention and treatment. In this article, we will explore the possible causes of tooth pain when touched and discuss potential remedies.
Causes of Tooth Pain When Touched:
1. Tooth Decay: Tooth decay, or cavities, can cause sensitivity and pain when touched. Bacteria erode the tooth enamel, exposing the nerves, resulting in discomfort.
2. Gum Disease: Periodontal disease can cause gum recession and expose the sensitive roots of the teeth. Touching an affected tooth may cause pain or discomfort.
3. Cracked Tooth: A cracked tooth can be extremely painful, especially when pressure is applied. It is essential to have this addressed promptly to prevent further damage.
4. Dental Abscess: An abscessed tooth occurs when there is an infection at the tooth’s root. Touching the tooth may cause pain due to the inflammation and pressure from the infection.
5. Teeth Grinding: Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can wear down enamel and expose the dentin layer, leading to sensitivity and pain when touched.
6. Dental Trauma: A traumatic injury to the tooth, such as a fall or accident, can cause pain and sensitivity when touched. It is crucial to seek dental care immediately if trauma occurs.
7. Sinus Infection: Sinusitis can cause referred tooth pain. When the sinuses become inflamed, the nerves that supply the upper teeth may also become irritated, leading to tooth sensitivity when touched.
8. Dental Work: Recent dental procedures, such as fillings or crowns, can cause temporary sensitivity when touching the tooth. This should subside within a few weeks.
Remedies for Tooth Pain When Touched:
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
2. Dental Check-ups: Regular dental visits allow for early detection and treatment of dental issues. Your dentist can identify the cause of tooth pain when touched and provide appropriate treatment.
3. Desensitizing Toothpaste: Using desensitizing toothpaste can help alleviate tooth sensitivity and pain when touched. These toothpaste options contain ingredients that block the pain signals from reaching the nerves.
4. Mouthguard: If teeth grinding is the cause of your tooth pain, wearing a mouthguard at night can help protect your teeth and alleviate the pressure.
5. Warm Saltwater Rinse: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. This can provide temporary relief for tooth pain caused gum disease or dental abscesses.
6. Over-the-counter Pain Relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage tooth pain temporarily. However, it is essential to consult a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Common Questions and Answers:
1. Can a cavity cause pain when touched?
Yes, tooth decay can cause sensitivity and pain when touched due to the exposed nerves.
2. How can I tell if my tooth pain is due to gum disease?
If you notice receding gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, and swollen gums, it may indicate gum disease as the cause of your tooth pain.
3. What should I do if I crack a tooth?
If you crack a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and see a dentist immediately.
4. Can sinusitis cause tooth pain?
Yes, sinusitis can cause referred tooth pain, especially in the upper teeth. Treating the sinus infection should alleviate the tooth pain.
5. Will a mouthguard help with tooth pain caused teeth grinding?
Yes, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth and reduce tooth pain caused bruxism.
6. How long will tooth sensitivity after dental work last?
Tooth sensitivity after dental work should subside within a few weeks. If it persists, consult your dentist.
7. Can a dental abscess cause pain when touching the tooth?
Yes, a dental abscess can cause pain when touched due to the inflammation and pressure from the infection.
8. How can I prevent tooth pain when touching my teeth?
Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are key to preventing tooth pain when touched.
9. Can using desensitizing toothpaste help with tooth sensitivity?
Yes, desensitizing toothpaste can help alleviate tooth sensitivity and pain when touched.
10. How can I reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in my mouth?
Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria temporarily.
11. Are over-the-counter pain relievers effective for tooth pain?
Over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief for tooth pain, but it is essential to consult a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
12. Can trauma cause tooth pain when touched?
Yes, traumatic injuries to the teeth can cause pain and sensitivity when touched. Seek dental care immediately if dental trauma occurs.
13. Can gum recession cause tooth pain when touched?
Yes, gum recession can expose the roots of the teeth, leading to tooth sensitivity and pain when touched.
14. Does poor oral hygiene contribute to tooth pain when touched?
Yes, poor oral hygiene can contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues that may cause tooth pain when touched.
Remember, tooth pain when touched should never be ignored. It is essential to visit your dentist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment to alleviate your discomfort and maintain your oral health.