Tooth Pain in Children: Causes and Solutions - Dentistry

Share to:

Pediatric Dentistry


Recently, I have been experiencing pain in my upper right teeth whenever I go down the stairs or shake my head.
I do not feel sensitivity to hot or cold, and eating does not cause pain.
What could be the reason for this?

Wei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/21

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry


Hello Wei,
It is possible that the dental nerve has become necrotic, leading to an infection at the root apex and even causing damage to the jawbone.
It is recommended to consult a dentist for further diagnosis and treatment.

Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2023/10/21

More Info


Tooth pain in children can be a complex issue, often stemming from various causes, including dental development, structural anomalies, or even external factors. In your case, the pain you are experiencing in the upper right tooth when moving your head or going downstairs, without sensitivity to temperature or pain while eating, suggests a few potential underlying issues.

One possibility is that the pain is related to the way the tooth is positioned or how it interacts with surrounding teeth. This could be due to a developmental anomaly, such as an abnormal tooth shape or position, which can lead to discomfort when the jaw is in motion. For instance, if the tooth is slightly misaligned, it may not fit properly with the opposing teeth, leading to pain during certain movements.

Another potential cause could be related to the periodontal tissues surrounding the tooth. If there is inflammation or irritation in the gums or the supporting structures of the tooth, it can lead to pain that is exacerbated by movement. This is often seen in cases where there is a buildup of plaque or tartar, which can lead to gingivitis or other periodontal issues.

Additionally, the pain could be a result of referred pain from another area in the mouth or jaw. Sometimes, pain from one tooth can manifest as discomfort in another due to the interconnected nature of the dental and nervous systems. For example, if there is an issue with a nearby tooth, it might cause discomfort that feels like it is coming from the upper right tooth.

Given that you mentioned there is no sensitivity to hot or cold, it is less likely that there is a cavity or decay present, as these conditions typically cause heightened sensitivity. However, it is still essential to have a thorough examination by a dentist. They may recommend X-rays to rule out any underlying issues that are not visible during a standard examination.

In terms of solutions, if the pain is due to a structural issue or misalignment, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the positioning of the teeth. If the pain is related to gum inflammation, improved oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, can help alleviate the symptoms. Additionally, using a warm saltwater rinse can reduce inflammation and promote healing in the gums.

If the pain persists or worsens, it is crucial to seek professional dental care. A dentist can provide a more accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include dental fillings, orthodontic intervention, or other procedures depending on the specific cause of the pain.

In summary, tooth pain in children can arise from various factors, including developmental anomalies, periodontal issues, or referred pain. While the absence of temperature sensitivity may indicate a lower likelihood of decay, a thorough dental examination is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Regular dental check-ups are vital in maintaining oral health and addressing any issues before they escalate.

Similar Q&A

From Sensitivity to Pain: Understanding Dental Issues in Children

Hello, Doctor. I have a few teeth that are primary teeth, and one of them has had cavities and has been filled several times. Around the end of January, I suddenly became particularly sensitive to cold items. Brushing my teeth and rinsing with tap water causes a sharp pain. I vis...


Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Anonymous Miss: Hello! Your teeth are quite special, as you still have primary teeth. Generally, if a tooth cracks, it may initially cause sensitivity and can be difficult to detect. As it continues to crack, the symptoms will become increasingly uncomfortable. If the crack ...

[Read More] From Sensitivity to Pain: Understanding Dental Issues in Children


Understanding Tooth Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hello, Doctor. I have a few questions to ask you: 1. Over the past year, I have experienced pain in about six teeth, specifically in positions 17, 18, 25, 27, 37, and 47. This pain occurs without any food or related stimuli, and it is particularly intense in the morning upon wa...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Hello: 1. It is more likely that gum recession is causing the teeth to be exposed in the oral cavity, or there may be cracks in the teeth. It is advisable to avoid chewing hard foods or exposure to extreme temperatures. 2. If there is an abscess behind teeth 46 and 47, consid...

[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options


Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Solutions for Pain

Hello Doctor: About a month ago, I started experiencing sensitivity and pain in my teeth when exposed to cold and hot temperatures. I had a similar issue last winter, but it resolved on its own. Initially, the sensitivity was not severe, but now even drinking cold water or mildly...


Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
The causes of cold, hot, and acidic tooth pain may include gingival inflammation or defects in the calcified structure of the teeth, which lead to sensitivity to temperature stimuli. Mechanical irritation (such as improper brushing techniques, like horizontal brushing or excessiv...

[Read More] Understanding Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Solutions for Pain


Understanding Tooth Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort

I have been experiencing discomfort in my lower teeth for a month now. I have visited three clinics, and they all said it was just inflammation and did not see any cavities. They prescribed painkillers and advised me to avoid hard foods, which I have been following, but it hasn&#...


Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: From both local and systemic perspectives. Common local issues that may cause discomfort in the teeth include dental caries, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. However, if X-rays have been taken and no problems were found, then it is important to consider systemic issues...

[Read More] Understanding Tooth Pain: Causes and Solutions for Discomfort


Related FAQ

Pain

(Dentistry)

Pediatric Dentistry

(Dentistry)

Teething

(Pediatrics)

Teeth Grinding

(Dentistry)

Bruxism

(Dentistry)

Tooth Sensitivity

(Dentistry)

Losing Baby Teeth

(Dentistry)

Tooth Trauma

(Dentistry)

Incisors

(Dentistry)

Tooth Abscess

(Dentistry)