What is Causing My Tooth Pain When Exercising?

If you experience tooth pain during exercise, or your teeth hurt when running, jumping or engaging in other physical activities, it could be a cause for concern. This type of pain may be sporadic or persistent, and it often indicates an underlying dental issue that needs attention. Consult with a proven and trusted dentist in Hicksville to resolve the tooth pain and restore your oral health.

Common Causes: Why Do My Teeth Ache When I Run?

Dental Caries and Cavities

Dental caries, or cavities, are one of the most common causes of tooth pain. When you have a cavity, the decay can penetrate the enamel and dentin layers, reaching the sensitive inner parts of the tooth. The impact from jumping or running can exacerbate this pain due to increased pressure on the affected lower or upper teeth.

Sensitivity Due to Exposed Dentin

Tooth sensitivity while jumping occurs typically when the protective enamel wears away, exposing the underlying dentin. Dentin contains tiny tubules that lead to the tooth’s nerve center. Activities that involve sudden movements, like jumping or running, can cause fluid movement within these tubules, triggering teeth sensitivity and sharp pain.

Cracked or Fractured Teeth

A fractured or cracked tooth can cause significant pain or result in sensitive teeth during physical activity. The crack may not be visible but can still affect the tooth’s structure and integrity. The pressure from running or jumping can worsen the crack, causing pain as the parts of the tooth move slightly.

Sinus Issues Affecting Tooth Nerves

Sinus pressure, infections or inflammation can cause referred pain in the teeth, particularly the upper molars, which are close to the sinus cavities. The pressure changes from jumping or running can intensify this referred pain, making it feel like a toothache.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Bruxism or teeth grinding often occurs during sleep but can also happen unconsciously during the day. This habit can lead to tooth wear, cracks, and increased tooth sensitivity. Physical activities can exacerbate the pain caused by bruxism and teeth clenching due to additional pressure on the already stressed teeth.

Gum Disease and Inflammation

Gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, can cause tooth pain. Inflammation and infection of the gums can lead to tooth sensitivity and pain. The jarring motion from running or jumping or even cold air can aggravate the inflamed tissues due to increased blood flow, causing discomfort.

When to Seek Dental Care for Tooth Pain

• Continuous or severe pain
• Swelling around the affected tooth or gums
• Pain that does not subside with over-the-counter pain relievers
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Visible signs of tooth damage or decay

Why Does My Tooth Hurt When I Jump: Preventive Measures

• Proper oral hygiene
• Wear a mouthguard
• Avoid trigger foods and drinks
• Use desensitizing toothpaste
• Eat healthy and stay hydrated

Initial Consultation and Dental Examination at R+R Dental

At R+R Dental, our first step in addressing tooth pain is a thorough initial consultation. During this visit, our experienced dentists will:

• Discuss your symptoms and medical history
• Perform a comprehensive dental examination
• Use diagnostic tools like digital x-rays and intraoral cameras to identify the cause of your pain

R+R Dental’s Customized Treatment Plans to Resolve the Underlying Cause of Your Tooth Pain

At R+R Dental, as part of our general dentistry and restorative dental services, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to resolve your tooth pain.

Fillings or Crowns

Fillings:

• Purpose: Dental fillings are used to treat cavities by removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling it with a restorative material.
• Procedure: After numbing the area, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed. The cavity is then cleaned and filled with a material such as composite resin, which is matched to the color of your natural teeth for a seamless appearance.
• Benefits: This restores tooth function, prevents further tooth decay, and provides a natural look.

Crowns:

• Purpose: Crowns are used to restore teeth that are significantly damaged or cracked, providing strength and protection.
• Procedure: The damaged tooth is reshaped to accommodate the crown. Impressions are taken to create a custom crown that fits perfectly. While the permanent crown is being made, a temporary crown is placed. Once ready, the permanent crown is cemented in place.
• CEREC Digital Technology: At R+R Dental, we offer CEREC technology to create crowns. This advanced digital technology allows us to design, mill, and place your crown in a single visit, offering convenience and efficiency.
• Benefits: Provides durability, restores function, and matches the appearance of your natural teeth. Crowns are also used with dental implants for restoration.

Root Canal Therapy

Purpose: Root canal therapy is necessary when the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels) becomes infected or severely decayed.

Procedure:

1. Diagnosis and Preparation: X-rays are taken to assess the extent of the infection.
2. Numbing: The area around the affected tooth is numbed to ensure comfort.
3. Cleaning and Shaping: The infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and shaped.
4. Filling and Sealing: The cleaned space is filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then sealed with a temporary or permanent filling.
5. Restoration: In most cases, a crown is placed on the tooth to restore its strength and function.

Benefits: Saves the natural tooth, eliminates infection, and alleviates pain.

Periodontal Treatment

For Gingivitis:

• Purpose: Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease, characterized by inflamed and bleeding gums.
• Procedure: Treatment involves professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Improved oral hygiene practices are recommended to maintain gum health.
• Benefits: Reduces inflammation, prevents progression to more severe gum disease, and promotes overall oral health.

For Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis):

• Purpose: Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss if untreated.
• Procedure: Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) are performed to remove plaque and tartar from deep periodontal pockets and smooth the tooth roots. In advanced cases, surgical interventions like flap surgery or bone grafts may be necessary.
• Benefits: Reduces infection, preserves teeth, and restores gum health.

Night Guards

Purpose: Night guards are used to protect teeth from the damaging effects of bruxism (teeth grinding) which can occur during sleep.

Procedure:

1. Diagnosis: Our dentists will evaluate your symptoms and may take impressions of your teeth.
2. Custom Fabrication: A custom-fitted night guard is made to fit your teeth comfortably and securely.
3. Usage: The night guard is worn during sleep to prevent grinding and protect the teeth from wear and damage.

Benefits: Prevents tooth damage, reduces jaw pain and headaches, and promotes restful sleep.

Treatment for Sensitive Teeth

Purpose: Tooth sensitivity can result from worn-out enamel, exposed dentin, or receding gums.

Procedure:

1. Diagnosis: The cause of sensitivity is determined through a thorough examination.
2. Desensitizing Treatments: Depending on the cause, treatments may include desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, or bonding agents to seal exposed dentin.
3. Preventive Measures: Recommendations for maintaining enamel health and preventing further sensitivity, such as using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding acidic foods and drinks.

Benefits: Reduces pain and discomfort even when exposed to hot or cold substances or cold weather, strengthens enamel, and improves quality of life.

Choose Our Top-Rated Dentists to Restore Your Oral Health and a Natural-Looking Smile

Receive the highest quality dental care at R+R Dental, where our experienced, ADA-certified dentists utilize the latest dental technology to diagnose, prevent, and treat a wide range of oral health issues. Whether you need general, cosmetic, family or restorative dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatments and exceptional care to patients in Hicksville, NY. To request an appointment, call us at (347) 431-0402 or contact us online.