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Toothaches are one of the most common complaints in the dental industry. When you have a toothache it seems as though everything else around you is even more annoying or frustrating. What causes a toothache? What are the best ways to get rid of a toothache?
To start, a toothache is pain or soreness that happens in the actual tooth or in the surrounding gum areas. Pain can be long-lasting or come in waves, doesn’t sound too fun, huh? The most common causes for a toothache is from tooth decay, trauma to the tooth or surrounding area, or teeth grinding (bruxism).
Tooth decay is a very serious condition that goes unnoticed by patients at an alarming level. Small cavities within a tooth are sometimes painless until the decay penetrates through the inner layer of the tooth, called the dentin layer. As the decay progresses and penetrates the innermost layer – the pulp – the toothache will consist of sharp and aggravating pain.
After suffering from a fall or any sort of impact to your head and/or mouth, most people don’t realize how severe the damage might actually be. A small crack or fracture to a tooth could allow for bacteria to enter the tooth and even the pulp area which would lead to tooth decay and an inevitable toothache. Pain from a cracked or broken tooth is typically described as a dull, aching pain with some sharp and painful jabs near the gums.
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is another leading cause of toothaches, especially in young children. Most people grind their teeth without knowing it, either when they’re sleeping or when they’re suffering from stress or anxiety.
If you think you’re suffering from a toothache, it’s best to consult your dentist as soon as possible to determine what the best treatment might be.
