Video Transcript
Hello, Dr. B from AsktheDentist.com. What is the most common type of tooth pain? After 25 years in practice, I see one pattern more often than others, and I’ll describe it here.
The typical symptoms include a brief, non-lingering sensitivity to cold or hot foods and drinks — coffee, ice cream, or cold water. In cold climates, simply breathing in cold air can trigger the discomfort. The ache can be diffuse and difficult to localize; it may feel like it’s on one side but not necessarily on a single tooth. Occasionally the pain appears spontaneously, but usually it’s triggered by a cold stimulus. Importantly, this pain is not usually caused by biting pressure.
When patients describe these symptoms, my next question is: “Does very sweet food hurt?” If they respond “yes,” that often points to the problem I’m discussing here — root pain. Root pain occurs when the root or the tooth surface near the gum line becomes exposed.
Fortunately, this type of pain generally does not indicate a deep cavity or an infection attacking the pulp.
What Causes Root Pain?
Many people by their 30s have ground their teeth enough that the enamel at the tooth’s base — where the tooth meets the gum on the cheek side — wears away. Repeated vertical forces from opposing teeth can chip and erode this area.
As the tooth’s side breaks down, the underlying dentin can become exposed. Gum recession can also reveal the root surface. Exposed root and dentin are more sensitive to temperature changes and to sugar, so cold or sweet stimuli can produce a sharp, short-lived sensation.
If your symptoms are limited to brief sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet items, with quick recovery and no spontaneous pain when your mouth is at rest, the likely cause is exposed root or dentin sensitivity. I often call this dentin pain — sensitivity of the exposed root to environmental factors.
What to Do About Root Pain
Treatment usually starts with conservative measures. Use a high-fluoride toothpaste, avoid aggressive brushing, and switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush. Replace your brush regularly and stop scrubbing back and forth, which can worsen gum recession and wear.
Fluoride applications help strengthen the exposed dentin and reduce sensitivity. However, the most important step is an evaluation by your dentist to confirm the cause. If your dentist determines the pain is indeed from exposed root or dentin, the prognosis is typically good.
There are other types of tooth pain that can be more serious, and we will cover those in future discussions. For many patients who describe the symptoms above, the news is reassuring: it’s often not a severe problem.
Thanks for watching.
Dr. Mark Burhenne
Learn More:How to Stop a Toothache and Get Out of Pain Fast