Are You Experiencing Toothaches? 4 Possible Causes
Posted on: 16 September 2021
A toothache or tooth pain is impossible to ignore and can make one miserable. The pain can either be sharp or mild and can occur in or around the tooth. Typically, a tooth has soft pink pulp containing blood vessels, tissues, and nerves that helps to keep the tooth alive. Inflammation or infection of the pulp, also known as pulpitis, is what leads to tooth pain. If you are experiencing tooth pain, below are four possible causes:
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay happens when there is too much bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria produce acids that damage the enamel, which is the outer layer of your tooth. When the outer layer gets destroyed, sensitivity in mild levels will begin.
However, the pain can become severe when the decay progresses into the inner layer of the tooth, known as the dentil. A cavity can develop at this point. Tooth decay manifests as black or brown spots on the tooth and will likely cause severe pain. The solutions your dentist can recommend include fillings to the cavity, tooth cleanings, and antibiotic doses to dull the pain.
Gum Infection or Disease
Gum disease, commonly known as gingivitis, is the inflammation of the gums. These inflammations are often caused by bacterial infection and can develop into a more severe condition known as periodontitis.
Gum infection may be caused by smoking, not cleaning your teeth properly, a poor diet, and genetics. Dull pains in the mouth and red or bleeding gums are the early signs of gum infection. When the bacteria from the infected gums settle around the roots of the teeth, the tooth pains may become worse. Dentists usually treat these infections using medication and specialized dental cleanings.
Tooth Fractures
Falling, being hit hard, or biting into something hard can cause a tooth fracture. Tooth fractures are usually chippings or cracks on the tooth. If ignored, a cracked or chipped tooth will allow air, liquids, food particles, and bacteria into the pulp, eventually causing tooth pain. Here, the dentist may advocate for a root canal, veneers, fillings, or dental glue to repair the fracture.
Dental Abscess
Untreated tooth inflammation or infection can lead to a dental abscess. A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus containing the dead tissue from the pulp. If unchecked, abscesses can spread and result in cavities, causing widespread pain. Worse still, it can lead to bad breath. Treatment for abscesses may include antibiotics, teeth cleanings, or a root canal.
Tooth pain can be excruciating, and any sign of it should be addressed immediately. Visiting your dentist for regular checkups is fundamental, and so is properly cleaning your teeth. In addition, a medicated mouth wash can go a long way in keeping oral pain at bay. For more information, reach out to a dentist in your local area.
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