Having a toothache can be a very unpleasant experience, and many people do not know why they have a pain in their teeth. When you have a toothache, you should go to the dentist to get the correct diagnosis and treatment. If you do not get treatment, your toothache may spread to other areas of your mouth, and may lead to health complications.
Pain in your teeth can range from mild to severe. One of the most common causes is tooth decay, which is a result of bacteria eating away at the hard enamel of the teeth. This is a condition that can be avoided by maintaining good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush is a good idea. Also, keep an eye on your teeth for signs of plaque buildup. Using an ice pack wrapped in a towel can also help reduce inflammation.
Another common cause is gum disease. This can be caused by gum recession or enamel erosion from a highly acidic diet. If gum disease is left untreated, it can increase the intensity of the pain. The resulting inflammation can lead to irreversible pulpitis, which is the inflammation of the pulp of a tooth. If this occurs, a root canal may be required to repair the tooth.
Pain can also be caused by a sinus infection. If your sinuses are inflamed, the pressure they exert can cause pain in the teeth and jaw. If you have a sinus infection, you should visit your doctor or family physician. You may also need to have a dentist check your teeth.
Sometimes tooth pain is caused by stress or clenching your teeth. These types of situations can cause your teeth to become loose, and can cause pain when you bite down or brush. Using a mouth guard can help prevent this from happening. Also, frequent vomiting can lead to toothaches and other complications.
Another common cause of tooth pain is nerve pain. This type of pain is biological, and is caused by a condition called trigeminal neuralgia. The condition causes chronic nerve pain in the head. It can be treated by a dentist, and can be treated with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications.
Sensitivity to hot or cold food or drink can also cause tooth pain. A tooth that is extremely sensitive to cold may cause a burst of pain when you chew, bite or drink. Also, tooth enamel can be worn away over time, exposing the dentin tubules, which leads to the pulp containing nerves. This type of tooth pain is not as common as other types, but it can still happen.
Dental cavities are another common cause of pain. Bacteria in your mouth produce acid, which dissolves the enamel of your teeth. If you have a cavity, it will look like a small hole in your tooth. You should see your dentist as soon as possible.
Another reason for tooth pain is a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problem. The TMJ is a hinge connecting the jaw and skull, and allows you to chew and move your jaw. If the TMJ is damaged or inflamed, your jaw can become locked in an improper position. The TMJ may also be affected by arthritis or injury.
