A toothache is something that everyone is familiar with. Remember the pain that you feel sometimes when you take a bite out of some food and a toothache makes itself heard? It can be a bit mysterious, the way you’re perfectly fine one day and rolling around in pain because of your teeth the next day. Here, I’ll try to show you some of the possible causes for toothaches.
Toothaches can have any one of the following causes
Cavities
Cavities are holes in your teeth, known also as tooth decay or caries. The tooth enamel gets invaded by bacteria, which will break down teeth, by damaging the dentin, cementum and enamel. The bacteria types most common for infections of the teeth are Lactobacillus and Streptococcus mutans. If you don’t treat them you can end up with an infection, an abscess, a lot of pain, and sometimes death.
Cracks
Sometimes you can crack one of your teeth, especially if you’re chewing on something that is hard. The pain doesn’t show up immediately. Instead, it appears when you bite out of something, hours or even a few days later. In some cases the food will settle in the space created by the crack. In other cases, a nerve will be exposed by the crack. Many of these cracks can’t be seen with an x-ray or with your eyes. You need to fix them before they get worse and a piece of your tooth breaks off.
Fractures
When a tooth has a root canal made, it is possible that it will fracture, for a variety of reasons, like when pressure is applied, when it has a filling or because of how it was manipulated.
Sinus infection
In some cases, a sinus infection can cause you teeth pain, and it will be similar to a regular toothache.
Pulp irritation
The tooth’s connective tissue is known as the pulp and it has a nerve and blood supply. Sometimes bacteria will invade the pulp, and when that happens, it will become irritated. In some cases, the irritation will appear after a dental treatment, because of the crown or filling material which was used. A dentist can repair this problem.
Exposed nerve or root
Using a lot of vigor while brushing can cause this problem. Digging into gums is not a good idea, as it will make your gum withdraw, inflame and get red. An infection is also possible. You can end up with an exposed root or nerve, which causes a lot of pain. You can visit a dentist, to help you with your problem.
Tobacco Products
Chewing tobacco and smoking can cause teeth enamel problems and toothache.
Toothaches can cause a lot of problems, but they can be prevented if you take the necessary precautions. Some of the prevention steps are:
- Daily brushing of the teeth
- Daily flossing
- Go to a dentist regularly
- Every trimester you should visit a dental hygienist
- Try to use mouthwash on a regular basis
- The dentist shouldn’t be something to fear
As soon as you start feeling pain you should visit a dentist, instead of waiting. A dentist will take care of any problems before they become serious and cost you a lot more pain and money.
