Dental pain can appear suddenly or build up over time, and it can range from mild discomfort to severe, throbbing aches. At Your Family Dentist Liverpool, we know that understanding the causes of dental pain—and acting quickly—can make the difference between a simple fix and a major procedure.
Below, we explore the most common causes of dental pain and the best solutions to keep your smile healthy and pain-free.
1. Tooth Decay and Cavities
Cause:
Bacteria in plaque produce acids that erode tooth enamel. Over time, this can create cavities, which expose the softer dentin layer underneath, leading to pain. Acidic drinks marketed as “healthy” can accelerate this process.
Solution:
Prevention: Six-monthly check-ups and professional cleans help detect early decay.
Early Intervention: Remineralising treatments like fluoride varnish can stop early lesions from progressing.
Treatment: If decay has progressed, we use tooth-coloured composite fillings or crowns to restore strength and prevent further damage.
2. Tooth Sensitivity
Cause:
Sensitivity occurs when the protective enamel wears away or gums recede, exposing the sensitive dentin. This can happen from brushing too hard, consuming acidic foods, or grinding your teeth.
Solution:
Use a desensitising toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.
Limit acidic drinks and rinse with water afterwards.
In-clinic treatments such as fluoride applications can strengthen enamel and reduce discomfort.
3. Cracks, Chips, and Worn Teeth
Cause:
Teeth can crack from trauma, biting on hard foods, or even clenching and grinding (bruxism). Research suggests that 90% of people will grind their teeth for at least a year in their lifetime.
Solution:
Detecting early signs during regular check-ups allows us to act before cracks worsen.
A custom-made night guard can protect teeth from grinding.
Repairing damage with composite bonding, veneers, or crowns restores appearance and function.
4. Gum and Pulp Infections
Cause:
Advanced decay or untreated gum disease can allow bacteria to reach the pulp (nerve) of the tooth, causing infection, swelling, and pain. Gum infections can also result from poor oral hygiene or ill-fitting dental work.
Solution:
Early Stage: Deep cleaning and antibacterial treatments can reverse gum disease.
Advanced Stage: Root canal therapy may be needed to remove infection and save the tooth.
Antibiotics may be prescribed for severe infections alongside dental treatment.
5. Dental Work Issues
Cause:
Over time, restorations such as crowns, bridges, or fillings can wear down, loosen, or crack. Even implants, while resistant to decay, can develop gum problems if not properly maintained.
Solution:
Six-monthly check-ups help us spot small issues early.
Adjustments, polishing, or replacing worn restorations prevent bigger problems.
For implants, regular cleaning and professional maintenance reduce the risk of peri-implantitis (gum disease around implants).
6. Denture Problems
Cause:
Complete or partial dentures can loosen over time due to natural changes in the jawbone. Poorly fitting dentures can cause sore spots or fungal infections.
Solution:
Professional denture cleaning and polishing in our on-site lab.
Relining dentures to improve fit and comfort.
Regular oral tissue checks to prevent infections and detect changes early.
Why Early Action Matters
Dental problems rarely fix themselves. Ignoring pain can lead to:
More invasive treatment needs
Higher costs
Greater discomfort and longer recovery times
By attending regular check-ups at Your Family Dentist Liverpool, we can detect and treat problems before they cause significant pain—or prevent them entirely.
How to Protect Yourself from Dental Pain
Brush twice a day and floss daily.
Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth.
Book a check-up every six months (or more frequently if you have extensive dental work).
Your Comfort Is Our Priority
Whether your dental pain is mild, sharp, or persistent, our experienced team will diagnose the cause and recommend the best solution to restore your comfort and health.
Call us on (02) 9601 7534 or [Book Online] to schedule your appointment today and keep your smile healthy, functional, and pain-free.