I have radiating pain in my tooth, but no sign of a cavity exists. I think the worst and am concerned about needing an extraction and dental implant. What else could be causing the problem? Thanks. Gavin K.
Gavin – Thank you for contacting Dr. Szarek’s office.
Although you may not see signs of a cavity, the pulp of your tooth may be infected. Cavities or decay begin outside a tooth, but internal root absorption destroys tissue inside a tooth.
What Can Cause Tooth Pain Without a Cavity?
Conditions that can cause tooth pain without a cavity include the following:
- A fractured tooth can cause persistent tooth pain. A dentist will use a bright light to reveal if your tooth is fractured.
- Inflamed tissue. The tissue surrounding your tooth may be strained. The pain and inflammation in the tissue can transfer to your tooth.
- Jaw pain. Facial pain, such as pain in your jaw muscles, can refer to your teeth.
- Sinus problems can refer dull, aching, or throbbing pain in your teeth.
- Headaches. Migraine and cluster headaches can refer to deep pain in teeth.
- Cardiovascular problems. Heart problems can refer pain in the shoulder, neck, and even the jaw and cause pain in your teeth.
- Nerve pain. Specific neurological issues can cause you to feel pain in your face, teeth, or gums.
Prompt care for tooth pain can decrease the need for removal and a dental implant
Schedule an examination from your dentist for an examination and x-rays. Call a dentist for an appointment. Your dentist will determine if your tooth is causing discomfort. Early detection can prevent the need for tooth removal and a dental implant.
Your dentist may refer you to a primary care doctor and perhaps to a neurological for further tests to identify and treat the cause.
Lowell, Massachusetts, accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek sponsors this post.