Or something else…
While most people think a toothache automatically means a cavity (or the need for a root canal), several other conditions can also cause temperature sensitivity, pain during chewing, and other symptoms typically associated with a toothache. Here are some of those causes:
- Gum Recession. When patients experience gum recession (which can be caused by periodontal disease, genetics, or neglect) the root surfaces of teeth are exposed. This part of the tooth can be very sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, similar to a cavity.
- New Dental Work. Sometimes, when you’ve just recently had a cavity filling or other dental work, it will be sensitive for a while afterward. This is reaction is normal and will usually correct itself. Contact us if you feel ongoing pain or sensitivity.
- Malocclusion. When teeth alignment is disrupted, opposing teeth may strike too hard or cause grinding. This usually happens because a missing tooth has not been replaced, and the surrounding teeth have drifted and shifted out of position.
- Bruxism (clenching or grinding). People with bruxism place extreme pressures on their teeth, sometimes without even being aware of the condition. It may happen during sleep, or subconsciously during the day. In either case, this habit can weaken tooth enamel and cause teeth to become hypersensitive.
Always pay attention to what your body is telling you. If you feel ongoing pain, sensitivity, or something unusual going on in your mouth, then contact us to find out the cause and learn the best way to treat it!
Dr. Angela Burns moved to Austin 10 years ago and instantly fell in love with our beautiful city. Dr. Burns is originally from the Texarkana area. She attended Texas A&M for her undergraduate degree and The University of Tennessee Health Science Center for her degree in dental surgery (DDS). Dr. Burns is committed to providing her patients with gentle, technologically advanced dental treatment. She attends an average of 60 hours of continuing education every year. She is a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the Texas Dental Association, and the Capital Area Dental Society. Dr. Burns and her husband, Gary, have an 11-year-old daughter, Sydney, who is a proud 6th grader at Hill Country Middle School. She is also very involved in the Eanes PTO, her church, and loves raising her family in the Westlake community. “Growing up, I was drawn to mediating and helping others feel more included and less anxious. I was a camp counselor, student government officer and being the oldest of five, I was the family mediator. I found that I had a calling to help alleviate stressful situations for others and realized that being a good listener was something that was key to this. These skills really helped guide me into becoming a dentist that has based my practice on relationships, empathy and a sense of comfort. I knew that I wanted to provide an atmosphere that felt like home when others walked in. Our practice is small, personal and state of the art and we hope you feel like you’re hanging out with friends when you are here!” When she is not practicing dentistry, Dr. Burns enjoys traveling, hiking the greenbelt, enjoying Austin’s music scene, and eating Amy’s Ice Cream.
