The most common complaint in dentistry is toothaches. A toothache can be incredibly painful and debilitating. In most cases, it’s the initial symptom of various dental issues. Here are five of the most common causes of toothache and how to treat them:
Tooth Decay (Cavities):
Tooth decay is one of the leading causes of toothaches. Cavities occur when oral bacteria produce acids that erode the enamel, leading to the formation of small holes. As the erosion progresses, the sensitive parts of the tooth structure are exposed, and pain sets in. The worse the decay, the more the pain.
Treatment for cavities involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling it with a dental filling. The most common filling used include composite resin or amalgam. In severe cases, the tooth may be cleaned and disinfected through a root canal procedure. This process involved clearing out the nerves and vessels responsible for the toothache.
Gum Disease:
Gingivitis and periodontitis are types of gum diseases that result from the inflammation and infection of the gum tissues. They can cause tooth sensitivity and pain. In severe cases, gum disease can contribute to tooth decay. Managing gum disease may include professional dental cleanings, scaling and root planing, and antibiotic therapy. Nonetheless, prevention is better than cure. Oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing and flossing are effective in averting gum diseases.
Tooth Abscess:
A dental abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms in or around the tooth due to a bacterial infection. It often causes severe, throbbing pain that may involve the entire jaw. Furthermore, patients may develop fevers or full-blown bacteremia (blood infection). Severe cases of tooth abscess can involve the jaw, leading to inflammation of the bone. Treatment options for tooth abscess involve draining the pus, completing antibiotics therapy to clear the infection, and addressing any complications. In some cases, a root canal or tooth extraction is done as part of the treatment.
Tooth Sensitivity:
Tooth sensitivity causes sharp, shooting pains when taking hot or cold foods and beverages. It often results from exposed tooth roots or worn enamel. Tooth sensitivity is fairly common and a big risk factor for decay. Treatment includes using desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. It’s also imperative to address the underlying causes, such as gum recession or enamel erosion.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth:
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can fail to fully emerge from the gum, causing impaction. This leads to severe pain, swelling, and discomfort. In some cases, the teeth eventually emerge, and symptoms resolve. Treatment for impacted wisdom teeth may involve extraction, especially if they are causing pain or leading to other dental issues.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding):
Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching your teeth. It often occurs during sleep, but some severe cases have wake symptoms. Grinding teeth eventually wears down tooth enamel and leads to tooth sensitivity or pain. It also increases the risk of decay and gum disease. Managing bruxism typically involves wearing a custom-made nightguard or splint to protect the teeth from grinding and clenching. Stress management, relaxation exercises, and lifestyle changes may also be effective in addressing the underlying causes of bruxism.
Other factors, such as dental trauma, cracked or fractured teeth, and sinus infections, can also lead to toothaches. It’s essential to consult with a dentist if you experience persistent toothache to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. If you are keen on preventing these issues entirely, consider regular dental check-ups and maintaining good oral hygiene practices.