A toothache is a soreness, pain, or ache in and around the teeth or gums. Handling this kind of pain on top of your daily routine can be unpleasant and frustrating. Just imagine taking a lunch break at work and experiencing sharp pain after biting your sandwich. It will take you by surprise and leave you with throbbing gums the rest of the day. The pain may come from several possible reasons. But at the end of the day, your dental care provider can identify the issue and treat your toothache.
Whether it is a popcorn hull or a cold drink, anything can cause pain to the teeth and gums. Inside a person’s tooth is a soft material called the pulp. It is one of the most sensitive body parts since it contains nerves, tissues, and blood vessels. When it gets infected or injured, it can cause excruciating pain to the person. Below are some of the common causes that can spark a toothache.
Cavity or tooth decay is one of the top culprits for toothaches. Usually, this results from poor oral hygiene or failure to brush and floss regularly and adequately. Cavities can create a small hole in a tooth, growing more extensive and profound over time. Tooth decay also happens when the person consumes sugary foods and drinks regularly. When sugar combines with saliva and bacteria in the mouth, it produces acid that dissolves tooth enamel and causes decay.
If a person with tooth decay or cavity leaves it untreated, it can worsen and spread. Once it reaches the pulp chamber or the root and root tip, an infection will occur. It can result in severe throbbing pain, swollen gums, and possible bone loss. A dentist will need to drain the pus or give the patient a root canal. Sometimes, they may pull the tooth if the damage is severe.
Not every tooth pain can stem from issues within the tooth. They can also come from periodontal or gum diseases like periodontitis and gingivitis. Because of poor dental hygiene, plaque can form and result in gum diseases. The bacteria from the plaque can get inside the gums and cause inflammation, redness, and bleeding. If the disease advances, the gums can swell so much, causing damage to the teeth and jawbones. It can cause pain and even result in the breaking or loss of teeth.
Some people experience discomfort and pain when a specific tooth becomes exposed to hot or cold temperatures. Be it the air, liquids, or certain foods, it can affect sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity occurs due to weakened enamel and exposed dentin. A person may develop this condition from brushing too vigorously, eating acidic food, and grinding or clenching the teeth.
An individual can prevent toothaches by practicing proper dental care. This may be difficult to maintain, especially with busy schedules and demanding lifestyles. Preventing tooth pain is still possible. The following are some simple ways to protect teeth from toothaches:
Although a toothache on its own is not fatal, most of its underlying causes can worsen and lead to other issues. If you experience tooth pain that is severe and lasts longer, you must visit a dentist as soon as possible. They can provide proper diagnosis and treatment for different types of oral issues. Your dental practitioner is key to relieving the pain, preventing the spread of infection, and saving your teeth.
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