Mouth pain and discomfort can, at best severely disrupt your day, and at worst prevent you eating and be a sign of serious oral health problems. Oral issues can be particularly problematic as it’s never easy to see properly inside your own mouth to deduce what the problem might be and there might not be any obvious reason why you are suddenly experiencing discomfort.
Here is a list of common causes of oral pain.
1. Gum Disease Risks
If your gums are extremely sore and inflamed, it could be a sign of gum disease. Another common symptom is spitting blood when you brush your teeth. If you suspect gum disease, be sure to discuss with your dentist as soon as possible and keep on top of regular dental appointments in order to catch the signs early. A thorough cleaning routine is essential, especially flossing as this will clean between the teeth close to the gum and keep them healthy.
2. Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth can be extremely painful. Issues with sensitivity can arise if the enamel on your teeth has been worn down or if the tooth’s root is exposed. Your dentist can best advise you how to combat sensitive teeth and may recommend using a certain toothpaste tailored for the problem. You might want to avoid very hot and very cold food items or drinks until the pain has lessened.
3. Broken Or Damaged Teeth
Cavities in teeth may be causing pain and chipped teeth can increase the risk of sensitivity. If you know your tooth has been damaged, see a dentist a soon as possible. Attend regular checkups so that your dental professional can best recognize signs of issues like cavities.
4. Broken Dentures
Dentures which are compromised in their fitting can cause discomfort, especially when trying to eat. Furthermore, they can increase the risk of sores or infection if the denture doesn’t fit properly. It’s important to attend to any signs that your denture may need to be replaced to avoid pain and problems developing, and so that you can eat comfortably.
5. Damage To Braces Or Retainers
If you have had orthodontal work done, then pain or discomfort may be due to problems with your braces or retainer. While pain is expected when having braces or a retainer fitted, due to your mouth needing to get used to the feeling of teeth being moved and tightened, any unexpected pain should be attended to. Braces may have been compromised or a retainer broken if you’re experiencing unexpected pain, so speak to your orthodontist as soon as possible.
6. Injury
You may not even realize that you’ve injured yourself, as small injuries can occur through eating. You may have bit into the side of your mouth or your lip, or burned your mouth, and sometimes symptoms might appear a while later.
If you’ve suffered a more obvious accident, like a fall or being knocked in your mouth, you probably have an injury inside your mouth, or you may have developed toothache from impact.
Be sure to speak to a health professional to discuss any issues of pain you’re having in your mouth or with your teeth.