Toothache refers to pain in or around the teeth and jaws that can be caused by common dental conditions such as tooth decay, tooth fractures, damaged fillings, repetitive motions, infected gums, or gum disease. Toothaches can be mild or severe, constant or intermittent, and can be triggered or get worse by eating or drinking hot or cold food and drinks. Professional help from the dentist helps you get the dental care you deserve.
Based on the evaluation, your dentist will suggest the right treatment. Sometimes, dentists may suggest allentown crowns and bridges, fillings, implants, root canals, or other forms of treatment.
When to see a dentist for your tooth pain?
A toothache can be a minor irritation or a sign of a more serious issue than you think it is if it lasts longer than one or two days, is severe, or is followed by a fever. It is very important to see a dentist as soon as possible to identify the cause of the issue and recommend treatment. Toothache can also cause swelling around the tooth and inside the mouth.
- Tooth decay
Tooth decay is the most common cause of toothaches. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acid that erodes the tooth enamel and causes a cavity. The intense pain following consuming too hot or cold beverages is an alarm bell telling you that the pulp inside your tooth is irritated.
- Gum disease
Gum disease is a bacterial infection affecting the gums and bones supporting teeth. It can cause toothaches, especially if it has advanced to periodontitis, which means you probably have to be on the lookout for advanced gum disease.
- Grinding teeth (bruxism)
Grinding teeth can cause toothaches by putting pressure on the teeth and jaw muscles, causing pain and sensitivity. Grinding your teeth is not a very healthy habit for maintaining your oral health.
- Tooth trauma
Tooth trauma is generally caused by a blow to the mouth, a fall, or an accident and can cause toothaches by damaging the tooth or the surrounding tissues. This should not be neglected or overlooked in any way. Professional help should be sought as soon as possible. Brushing in a very hard way or using a brush that doesn’t have soft bristles is also a very common way to experience tooth trauma.
- Tooth eruption (in babies and school-age children)
Tooth eruptions can cause toothaches in babies and school-age children as their teeth grow and push through the gums. This is a very common condition, yet it can lead to severe toothache if not handled properly.