Your teeth help you talk, eat, and smile, so a toothache could significantly impact your life. A dental exam and cleaning every six months is a great way to avoid toothaches. Nonetheless, toothaches can occur, even with routine dental checkups. A toothache New York is a prevalent dental concern, resulting in millions of emergency dentist visits every year. Unfortunately, it could sometimes be difficult to pinpoint the root cause of your discomfort. This article will help you understand the common causes of toothaches. Continue reading to learn more.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is undeniably the most prevalent reason individuals experience tooth pain. Tooth decay happens once bacteria develops in the mouth from poor hygiene, and if not removed, the bacteria gradually start wearing away at your enamel.
Although bacteria is constant in both one’s mouth and overall body health, excessive oral bacteria can cause infections and gum disease if not treated. With time, the bacteria develop into plaque, which makes your tooth begin decaying and form tiny brown, or black spots of the affected teeth.
Tooth Abscess
A dental or tooth abscess could be very painful and begins once part or the entire pulp dies. The pulp is the soft inner part of the tooth and consists of living blood vessels, nerves, and tissues. Once this tissue dies, it creates a “pocket” or gap for bacteria to develop and transform into an abscess. Therefore, if you sustain tooth injury that exposes your pulp, it is crucial to see a dentist as it could result in an abscess if the cracked or chipped area is not treated.
Tooth Fracture
A tooth fracture happens once the tooth becomes cracked or damaged. Tooth fractures may result from direct tooth trauma because of an injury or accident, and even from biting on hard foods like ice.
Tooth fractures could develop gradually with time, which explains why numerous patients report experiencing a throbbing toothache that comes and goes. The cause of discomfort is something, such as food particles, air, bacteria, or water that enters through the cracked tooth and begins irritating the pulp.
Grinding or Clenching
Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding applies pressure to the mouth, which could lead to tooth pain. Bruxism may happen because of stress, over-developed jaw muscles, or genetics. If not treated, bruxism leads to tooth fractures, cavities, and even loose fillings. Common warning signs of teeth grinding or clenching include teeth that feel rougher on the edges, tiny teeth cracks, and teeth hypersensitivity.
Infected Gums
While not directly related to your teeth, gum infections may cause toothaches and even result in gum disease and periodontitis. Gum disease is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults. Common causes of gum infections include a poor diet, poor oral hygiene routines, and certain health concerns like diabetes.
Once your gum becomes infected, the infection grows around the tooth and tricks you into believing that you have a tooth issue. While you might experience a toothache as the prevailing symptom, it has probably originated from the infected gums.
Millions of individuals experience tooth pain, whether a throbbing or a dull achy sensation that arises when chewing. This tooth pain could stem from various factors, including tooth decay, gum problems, dental trauma, and more. Luckily, regardless of the reason for your discomfort, numerous solutions can help. For instance, your dentist may suggest ice therapy, and medications to alleviate mild discomfort. However, if you experience constant toothaches and standard medication is ineffective, it may signify a more serious issue requiring a dentist’s assessment.
