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Dr. James Courey answers the question, why does my tooth hurt?

Never ignore a toothache that won't go away or particularly uncomfortable pain in your teeth, as it could indicate a serious condition that requires professional dental care. Read below about some of the common causes of toothaches and how they should be treated to know when it"s time to call the dentist for an appointment.

Debris Caught Between Teeth
Sometimes, the source of your dental pain is simple: food or debris stuck between a tooth or along the gum line. Wash out your mouth or floss between the affected teeth, especially if you can see or feel debris. If the food remains lodged in place, schedule an appointment with your dentist to ensure it is fully removed. Food that remains between teeth or just under the gums can cause infections that lead to more pain and complications.
Cracked Or Broken Tooth
Whether you took a spill or bit into a hard piece of food, cracked or broken teeth can cause toothaches. If the tooth is still in your mouth but cracked, use cold to keep swelling down and call your dentist for care. If the tooth has come out, try to find it, rinse it in water, and place it back into the socket before you call your dentist and request an emergency appointment.
Tooth Infections
Tooth decay and infections can often cause pain in your mouth. Don't ignore this pain because doing so can lead to further tooth problems. Call Dr. Courey or Dr. Zagami for an appointment and take over-the-counter painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen as needed until your dental visit. Your tooth may need a filling or a root canal, depending on the depth of the infection.
Whatever the cause of your tooth pain, Specialized Dentistry of New Jersey is here to relieve your pain and restore your smile. We also offer preventive and cosmetic dentistry to meet all of your needs. Check out our dental services on the web or call us at 732)-577-0555.