Identifying the Problem with Mouth Pain

Not feeling well lately? Do you find yourself waking up to tooth or gum pain? Don’t underestimate how important a Boise dental care exam can be when it comes to mouth pain. Depending on the cause, immediate treatment might be the answer when it comes to preserving your smile and protecting your overall health.

While we know that sometimes a trip to your Boise dentist can be a stressful thought, it’s worse to delay treatment when it comes to potential Boise dental problems. Find out what’s really going on in your mouth. Chances are, the truth (in most cases) will probably be less scary than what you’ve imagined.

Common Causes of Oral Discomfort

Cavities – Cavities are holes that form when acids eat through the outer layer of a tooth’s surface. When caught early, they are easily treated but if left untreated can become infected requiring a root canal or extraction. If your tooth is crying out for help, don’t ignore it! Schedule an appointment with your Boise dentist today!

Gingivitis/periodontal disease – Not only does plaque cause cavities when it builds up on your teeth, your gums can suffer as well. Plaque promotes bacterial growth which can in turn inflame your gums. Aggravated gums are then prone to infection. If bacteria is able to invade the pockets that form between the gums and your teeth, your tooth loses stability which can lead to major problems.

TMJ disorder – Your occlusion is the alignment of your bite. If your jaws are aligned properly, your teeth fit together as they should and you can eat or chew without discomfort. Unfortunately, an overbite or underbite can lead to malocclusion. Long-term malocclusion can then lead to problems with jaw joint pain (TMJ). TMJ pain can be felt on either side of the face, as well as in front or slightly below the ears.

Bruxism – Chronic teeth grinding is another habit many people suffer from. Most people clench or grind at night. During a Boise dental exam, your Boise dentist will be able to recognize the signs of Bruxism, like worn enamel and receding gums. If your wake up in the morning with sore teeth and jaws, your most likely grinding your teeth at night.

Canker sores – Also known as an Aphthous ulcer, cankers sores are known to cause general discomfort but rarely lead to any serious problems. While it’s always important to discuss any dental problems with your Boise dentist, canker sores can easily be relieved with over-the-counter canker sore or pain medication like Tylenol or Ibuprofen.