It’s no secret that your dentist in Madison isn’t a big fan of sugar. After all, this sweet ingredient can feed mouth bacteria and increase the risk of decay. But what does it mean when your teeth hurt while enjoying the occasional sweet treat? This type of tooth discomfort is just one example of tooth pain that patients can experience. Knowing what different toothache sensations could mean can help you get the right treatment... at the right time. A Word of CautionKeep in mind, the information in this blog is only a guide and is not an official diagnostic tool. You should always schedule an appointment with your dentist in Madison when you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort so you can be sure to get the best dental care for your specific needs.If You’re Feeling… Sensitivity to SugarThe tooth sensitivity to sugar we mentioned earlier is probably a good indicator of tooth decay. Your dentist can help diagnose this with a thorough exam and some x-rays. Depending on the size and severity of the decay, it may be treated with a filling, inlay or onlay, or perhaps a root canal and dental crown. If You’re Feeling… Tooth Pain that RadiatesTooth pain that seems to move around or radiate to other parts of the mouth could be a sign of a few different things including an abscess, cracked tooth, or TMJ disorder. Treatment will depend on the findings of a dental exam and x-rays and may include TMJ treatment, a dental restoration, a root canal, or an extraction. If You’re Feeling… Zings of PainOne of the most common types of tooth pain patients complain about is zinging pain. This quick burst of shooting pain is a potential sign of several dental problems. Painful zings can be a result of TMJ disorder, a cracked tooth, an infection, or something stuck in the gums. If You’re Feeling… Throbbing PainThrobbing pain is often described as a thumping or similar to a heartbeat, and like every other toothache, it could mean any number of things. Throbbing tooth pain can be a symptom of a cracked tooth, dying nerve, abscess or other infection, an oral lesion, or an object stuck in the gums. As you can see, there are multiple explanations for each type of tooth pain. This is why it’s so important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. If you’re experiencing a toothache, call your dentist in Madison to schedule an appointment. We’ll help uncover the underlying cause of your pain and work with you to get you back to smiling comfortably in no time.