Why Do My Teeth Hurt? | Chicago Dentist

It’s very unsettling when we get a toothache. Not only does the pain give you a major headache, but it likely means a visit to the dentist because, unfortunately, we can’t diagnose our oral pain. And there are many reasons your mouth may hurt. Here is a list of possible issues that may have caused your dental pain:

Temperature sensitivity. If you are feeling pain when you eat or drink hot or cold, it is due to worn tooth enamel or exposed nerves.

Gum recession. As we age, our gums begin to recede, and this causes our teeth roots to be exposed, making you more susceptible to gum disease or other oral infections.

Erosion. 12% of people develop “dentin hypersensitivity” because of a highly acidic diet or brushing too hard, which causes your enamel to erode.

Cavities. Poor diet and dental hygiene can cause your teeth to decay, causing cavities. This is why daily dental hygiene is so important.

Gum infection. 47% of adults over the age of 30 develop gum disease at some point in their lives. Keeping dental appointments is beneficial to stay on top of your mouth’s health.

Cracked tooth or crown. If you find that you’ve cracked a tooth or a crown, make a dental appointment as soon as possible to avoid major tooth pain.

Sinus infection. As your sinuses become inflamed and become pressurized, it can affect your teeth.

Jaw clenching. Grinding your teeth wears down your tooth enamel, which then causes your teeth to hurt.

Dental procedures. Dental work can leave you feeling sore. Take heed of your dentist’s recommendations for aftercare.

Teeth bleaching. While they do improve your smile, bleaching your teeth can cause you some discomfort. It’s temporary but avoid overbleaching.

If you would like more information about tooth pain, call Dr. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Peter O. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.

Do You Grind Your Teeth While You Sleep? | Chicago Dentist

Have you noticed that your jaw is sore when you wake up? Does your significant other notice that you are grinding your teeth? It is estimated that 30-40 million Americans are affected by what is known as bruxism. Clenching causes pressure on the muscles, tissues, and other surrounding structures of the jaw, which can cause jaw joint disorders, headaches, neck pain, jaw pain, ear pain, tense muscles, and excessive wear on the teeth. The cause of bruxism is not completely known, but many agree that stress and anxiety play a major role. Bruxism can cause damage to the temporomandibular joint (the hinge that connects the lower jaw to the upper jaw) if not properly treated. 

So, what is the treatment? Stress reduction and anxiety management are methods used to treat bruxism and reduce the symptoms, but a dental night guard is the most commonly used treatment method. A night guard is a horseshoe-shaped, retainer-like, plastic appliance with shallow borders that can be worn on either the top or the bottom teeth. It is intended to protect the teeth from the pressure of clenching and grinding by having a protective cushion between the upper and lower teeth. A nightguard is a simple and affordable decision for protecting your teeth and jaws from the damaging effects of bruxism. When properly made by your dentist, it can help reduce clenching, grinding, and TMJ problems by helping to relax the muscles in the jaw.

If you would like more information about bruxism, call Dr. Peter O. Cabrera in Chicago, IL at 312-994-7939 or visit www.perioimplantchicago.com.

Dr. Cabrera proudly serves Chicago and all surrounding areas.