What Tooth Pain Comes and Goes?

Tooth pain that comes and goes can have various causes. It is important to identify the underlying cause in order to determine the appropriate treatment. Some common causes of tooth pain that comes and goes include:

1. Cavities: Cavities are small holes in the tooth caused by the breakdown of the tooth enamel due to the acid produced by bacteria in the mouth. Cavities may cause tooth pain that comes and goes, especially when consuming cold or hot foods or drinks. The pain may also be more noticeable at certain times of the day, such as at night.
2. Sensitive teeth: Sensitive teeth may be caused by exposed dentin, which is the layer of tooth tissue underneath the enamel. This can be caused by gum recession, tooth grinding, or the use of tooth whitening products. Sensitive teeth may cause pain that comes and goes, especially when consuming cold or hot foods or drinks.
3. Gum disease: Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can cause tooth pain that comes and goes. It may also cause sensitivity to cold or hot foods or drinks. Other symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, and bad breath.
4. Abscessed tooth: An abscessed tooth is a tooth that has become infected, resulting in a pocket of pus at the root of the tooth. Abscessed teeth can cause severe tooth pain that comes and goes, and may also cause fever, swelling in the face or neck, and difficulty swallowing.
5. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ): The temporomandibular joint is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. TMJ disorder is a condition that affects this joint, causing pain in the jaw, face, neck, and head. TMJ disorder may cause tooth pain that comes and goes, especially when eating or talking.
6. Sinus infection: A sinus infection can cause tooth pain that comes and goes, especially in the upper teeth. This is because the sinuses are located near the upper teeth and the pain may be referred to the teeth. Other symptoms of a sinus infection include congestion, a runny nose, and facial pressure.

It is important to see a dentist if you are experiencing tooth pain that comes and goes. The dentist will examine your teeth and gums and may take x-rays to determine the cause of the pain. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the pain. Cavities can be treated with fillings, while sensitive teeth may be treated with desensitizing toothpaste or other medications. Gum disease can be treated with a deep cleaning or other periodontal treatments, and an abscessed tooth may need to be removed or treated with root canal therapy. TMJ disorder may be treated with medications, physical therapy, or a splint. A sinus infection may be treated with antibiotics or other medications.

In summary, tooth pain that comes and goes can have various causes, including cavities, sensitive teeth, gum disease, an abscessed tooth, TMJ disorder, and a sinus infection. It is important to see a dentist to determine the cause of the pain and receive appropriate treatment.