Tooth pain refers to aches, soreness or pain that comes from or around a tooth. It often leads to issues like dull or sharp pain and increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods. Toothaches can be caused by a number of things. A diagnosis performed by a dentist is needed to get to the bottom of the problem and treat it. Dentists typically do this by performing a dental exam, going over the patient’s medical history and conducting tests like X-rays.
Here are some common causes of tooth pain and how the dentist goes about treating them.
Gum disease is an infection of the gums. It is the result of plaque making its way beneath a person’s gumline. The bacteria there irritate the soft tissues of the gums, prompting the immune system to dispatch antibodies to combat them. As a result, the gums become swollen and red.
When left unaddressed, the infection will begin to eat away at the bone structures that support teeth. The patient experiences tooth pain as this deterioration occurs as well as increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods.
The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis and it can be combated by improving oral hygiene and getting teeth cleaned by a dentist. The patient’s condition can typically be reversed with this. Things are a bit more complicated with the more advanced stages of gum disease. Treatments like bone grafts, gum grafts and the use of dental restorations might be needed.
Tooth decay refers to the erosion of teeth enamel. It is often characterized by the formation of cavities. These are tiny holes that develop on teeth surfaces as acids created by oral bacteria eat away at them. These acids slowly weaken the enamel, eventually breaking it down.
When left untreated, a cavity will continue to expand until the entire tooth is compromised. Cavities lead to toothaches and, eventually, an infection.
How far a cavity has progressed determines how a dentist approaches it. A small cavity can be fixed by closing it up with a filling, while a bigger one might require a crown to protect the tooth. If the cavity has made its way to the pulp chamber (where the tooth’s nerve and soft tissues are enclosed), a root canal might be needed to stop the tooth pain and save a tooth.
Bruxism is the medical term for teeth grinding. People with this condition tend to grind their teeth during sleep. Most of them are not even aware they have this habit. However, teeth grinding leads to serious damage to teeth over time. It wears off the enamel as the person’s teeth are filed down over time. As a result, the patient experiences toothaches as multiple teeth become damaged due to their habit.
Teeth grinding is a bit trickier to deal with than most dental issues, but oral appliances can be used to reduce the damage done. Bruxism is often linked to stress or emotional issues and these have to be addressed to stop the habit.
Gum disease, tooth decay and bruxism are all common causes of toothache. Your dentist can help relieve your pain no matter what is causing it. Stop by your dentist’s office if you are dealing with tooth pain. Let the staff provide the necessary treatment.
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Most people have to deal with toothache pain a few times in their lives. The term refers to pain that originates from a damaged tooth. Toothaches can vary in severity from mild to severe and can occur randomly or persistently. Toothaches should not be ignored since it is the way the brain lets you know…
Dental problems do not take a day off and can occur at any time, which is why it is important that people have a dentist to go to if an emergency arises during the weekend when most dental offices are closed. In addition to emergencies, people who work full-time during the week that do not…
