Proper brushing and regular visits to your dentist are key to good oral health, but toothaches may still develop due to a variety of reasons. This dental issue may be common, but the pain can be overwhelming. Understanding the common causes and symptoms of a toothache will help you get the best treatment and relief from this painful problem.
Causes
Millions of people will suffer with one or more toothaches in their life, but the cause of each one may be different.
For most people, cavities are the initial cause of this ache. Cavities develop from the buildup of leftover food particles and bacteria, which cause plaque and tooth decay.
Without treating a cavity, it can become more serious, resulting in an abscessed tooth. An abscess is an infection that has spread from within the tooth pulp and into the root. This infection directly affects the underlying nerves of your teeth, causing intense throbbing and pain in not only the infected tooth, but also the entire mouth, jaw, and head.
If you recently had a tooth extraction and are suffering with a toothache, you may have a dry socket. After your extraction, a clot forms over the incision site, preventing further blood loss. If this clot becomes loose, food and bacteria may build up, infecting the socket and surrounding teeth. This is known as a dry socket, which can cause a toothache.
Gum disease is also a common cause of a toothache. The buildup of plaque on the teeth and gums can quickly spread, leading to gum disease, tooth decay, and discomfort. While gum disease stems from poor oral health and improper hygiene, it requires intense treatment with dental scaling, antibiotics, and restorative procedures.
Symptoms
Aches and pain are not the only symptoms of a toothache. Here are a few symptoms that may be surprising:
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Swollen Gums
- Red, Inflamed, Bleeding Gums
- Fever
- Constant Throbbing in Jaw, Head, and Neck
- Difficulty Chewing
A toothache may be common, but it does not have to wreak havoc on your life. If you are experiencing the symptoms of a toothache, contact our team at P.A. Dental Arts to treat the problem today.