Toothache
Toothache: A Common Dental Problem
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The term toothache or tooth pain refers to any pain or ache around or inside the tooth. You may feel pain when chewing or biting, feel sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, or even feel a dull ache. A toothache can be caused by dental or non-dental causes.
It is a common dental problem that many people experience at some point in their lives. It can be a mild ache or an intense pain that makes it difficult to eat or sleep. Toothaches can be caused by a variety of factors, including dental decay, gum disease, trauma, and tooth sensitivity.
It is possible for toothaches to be caused by temporary gum irritation. A dental professional must treat serious toothaches to resolve the pain and whatever is causing them.
It is important to see a dentist
As explained earlier, toothache can be caused by a variety of factors, including dental decay, gum disease, tooth sensitivity, trauma, impacted wisdom teeth, and sinus infections. It is important to see a dentist if you experience a toothache, as they can determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment. Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, can also help prevent toothaches and other dental problems.
Some of the most common causes of a toothache
Dental Decay
Dental decay, also known as cavities, is one of the most common causes of toothaches. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acid that attacks the tooth enamel, causing it to erode. This can lead to a hole in the tooth, which exposes the sensitive nerves inside, resulting in pain.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is another common cause of toothaches. It occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth and gums, leading to inflammation and infection. This can cause the gums to recede, exposing the sensitive roots of the teeth, which can be painful.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common condition that can cause a toothache. It occurs when the protective layer of enamel on the teeth is worn down, exposing the underlying layer of dentin. This can cause pain when the teeth are exposed to hot or cold temperatures, sweet or acidic foods, or when brushing.
Trauma
Trauma to the teeth, such as a fracture or chip, can also cause a toothache. The trauma can expose the sensitive nerves inside the tooth, causing pain.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can cause toothaches. This occurs when the wisdom teeth do not have enough room to grow in, causing them to push against the surrounding teeth and gums, leading to pain and discomfort.
Sinus Infection
A sinus infection can also cause toothaches. This occurs when the sinuses become inflamed and press against the roots of the upper teeth, causing pain.
Definition of Dental Terminology
Dental Decay
Essentially, tooth decay is damage to a tooth’s enamel surface. A bacteria in your mouth makes acids that attack your enamel.
Gum Disease
Inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria is called gingivitis. Leaving it untreated can lead to periodontitis, a serious gum infection.
Tooth Sensitivity
Sensitive teeth are characterized by mild to severe discomfort or pain when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or sweet drinks.
Dental Trauma
A dental trauma occurs when the teeth, gums, alveolar bone or soft tissues of the mouth are injured.
Impacted Wisdom Tooth
In an impacted wisdom tooth situation, the third molar (wisdom teeth) are unable to erupt into the mouth.
Sinus Infection
A sinus infection causes the sinuses to become blocked with fluid, causing them to become inflamed. In most cases, it is caused by a cold or allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Most frequent questions and answers
Q. Can toothache cause a headache?
A toothache can irritate the trigeminal nerve, causing a migraine headache. Untreated toothaches can also cause nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound.
Q. Can toothache cause ear ache?
It is possible for a toothache to cause ear pain. We have teeth very close to our ears, and the main nerve from our upper and lower jaws runs through the jaw joint and into our head.
Q. Why is toothache worse at night?
Your brain receives more blood when you lie down to sleep. In comparison to standing, you will experience more tooth pain when there is more blood circulation. This is because the increased blood flow exerts pressure on the painful tooth.
Q. What if my child has a toothache?
Call our office right away. You might be able to alleviate your child’s pain using over-the-counter medications, dosed according to weight and age. Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth to the area of the pain, but do not apply heat or aspirin.
Q. Can tooth pain go away by itself?
Sometimes tooth pain can resolve on its own, but most often it requires dental care. There are many causes of toothache, including bruxism, tooth decay, and gum disease. If you experience tooth pain for more than a few days, you should see your dentist.
Services at Moggill Dental
At our General and Family Dentistry practice, we strive to keep your teeth healthy and functional.
Our cosmetic dentistry services also include teeth whitening, veneers, invisible braces and white fillings.
Restorative Dentistry
We are passionate about helping patients with missing teeth to preserve the most youthful look possible.
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07 3492 9090