When it comes to pain in the mouth area, it can be challenging to figure out what the problem might be. Dental pain can come from several places, and it's often associated with nerves located in the jaw, gums, and nasal areas. Read on to learn more.

What's Going On?

There's no need to play detective when it comes to mouth pain. A quick consultation with your dentist can help you zero in on what is causing your discomfort. Sharp pains should always prompt you to phone for an emergency appointment. Don't wait to see if the pain subsides on its own – you might be placing yourself in danger if an infection is festering in your gums. In many cases, dental pain can be blamed on one of the following maladies.

1. Cavities – Not all cavities are obvious to the sufferer. Even hairline cracks in a tooth can be enough to allow foods, drinks, and even air into a tooth. If the nerve is exposed by decay inside the tooth, you can expect excruciating pain that needs prompt attention. The fix is classic and simple. Your dentist will numb you, remove the decayed areas, and fill the tooth or replace the old, damaged filling. If the tooth is too badly damaged to just fill, a root canal procedure to remove the infected pulp of the tooth may be needed. 
2. Broken Teeth – As long as no decay is present, your dentist can attend to a broken tooth to mend it. The sooner you see your dentist, the greater your chances of saving the tooth. In some cases, your dentist will advise you to have your tooth protected in the future by a crown or cap.
3. Sinus Infections – It might not be your teeth at all. Your sinus cavities are extremely close to your upper gum areas and any pain there might only feel like a dental problem It could be an infection in your sinus cavity. After a thorough examination, your dentist might refer you to your primary care doctor for antibiotic treatment for a sinus infection.
4. Food Debris – Brushing and flossing are necessary after eating, but some food particles can be stubborn and refuse to budge. Particularly when it comes to things like nuts, popcorn, pork, and other foods, you might not be able to remove everything. In some cases, stuck food can go unnoticed until an infection forms on the gums (an abscess). See your dentist quickly if you notice a puffy area on your gums or experience an unpleasant taste in your mouth.

To find out more, contact a dentist's office in your area, such as Apollo Dental Center, and ask about pain in the mouth area.