When we experience toothache we almost always attribute it to a possible cavity that is causing the pain we feel when we bite on our favorite food. While most of the time this might be true, it is considered only one of several causes of toothaches. Regardless of how well you think your dental routine is, at some point you might have experienced some discomfort like a toothache. Here is a discussion of the possible causes of toothache that your dentist will look into to ensure it is addressed.
Tooth Sensitivity
If you feel sharp pain when eating or drinking hot or cold food and beverages there is a big chance you have a cavity. However, it may also be a sign that you simply just have sensitive teeth and there is nothing really wrong with the teeth per se. Sensitive teeth can occur due to receding gums, or from thinning of your tooth enamel.
You can prevent tooth sensitivity by brushing your teeth correctly and regularly. Tooth brushing can be done twice daily for at least a couple of minutes with a toothpaste that does not contain high levels of abrasives so as to reduce the severity of your tooth sensitivity. Flossing is also very important in order to get rid of plaque on the gum line and between the teeth. Doing so regularly can help lessen tooth sensitivity. Your diet also plays a role in preventing tooth sensitivity. Follow a diet that is low on acidic foods to prevent tooth pain caused by sensitive teeth.
If your tooth sensitivity is severe your dentist can apply a crown or more boding to the sensitive tooth. The purpose is to counteract decay or to lessen the effect of diminished enamel. The last resort is a root canal and is usually reserved for the most severe cases where normal treatment is not enough to lessen the sensation.
Tooth Abscess
Tooth abscess is a bacterial contamination of the teeth. If the pain experienced is usually a sharp stabbing pain whenever you bite down on your food the usual cause is either a cavity or a cracked tooth. If you feel an incessant or throbbing pain then chances are it is an abscess that requires immediate treatment with antibiotics and possibly drainage.
Possibly Not Even Your Teeth
A less common but can cause significant tooth pain is a sinus infection. This happens only on your upper teeth on both sides of your face feeling the pain. This type of toothache is usually preceded by a nasal congestion and some tenderness felt around the sinuses. If you think this is the cause of your tooth pain better see your doctor at once.
If you notice a more identifiable pain in the jaw then chances are the cause is due to TMJ or temporomandibular joint dysfunction. This is usually caused by direct injury to the jaw, teeth grinding or bruxism and sometimes cancer or arthritis affecting the jaw joint or bone. If you recently had your wisdom tooth removed or if you have impacted molars then this could also be considered as the cause of the tenderness in the jaw area.
Consult With Your Dentist
Toothaches are always a major discomfort and can at times even prevent you from working or going about your day. Intermittent pain felt is really more of an inconvenience but delaying to see your dentist until the pain has gotten so severe may not be the best option. It is recommended that you see your dentist immediately in order to identify the cause of the pain so that treatment and relief can be provided at the soonest.