Toothache: 9 Common Causes and How to Deal with It

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Toothache is one of the most unpleasant sensations a person can experience. It can occur for various reasons and lead to severe discomfort. In this article, we'll look at nine of the most common causes of toothache and discuss ways to treat and prevent them.

1. Cavities

Caries, also known as cavities and tooth decay, are damage to dental tissue caused by bacteria that destroy enamel and dentin. Tooth decay can cause cavities to form in the tooth, which in turn causes sharp or throbbing pain. Incomplete treatment of caries can lead to the development of inflammation of the dental pulp, which will further aggravate the pain.

Treatment: Treatment for tooth decay involves removing the diseased tissue and filling the cavity with a filling. Root canal treatment or even tooth extraction may be required for advanced stages of tooth decay.

2. Pulpitis

Pulpitis is an inflammation of the dental pulp, which is located inside the tooth. This condition usually occurs as a result of deep tooth decay, trauma, or infection. Pulpitis is accompanied by sharp or stabbing pains, which can intensify when drinking cold or hot drinks and when chewing.

Treatment: Pulpitis usually involves root canal therapy, in which the dental pulp is removed, and the cavity is filled with a particular material to prevent further infection.

3. Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an inflammation of the tissues surrounding the tooth, including the gums and bone tissue. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection that destroys the gums and bone that support the tooth. Periodontitis can lead to toothache, discomfort when chewing, and tooth loss.

Treatment: Treatment for periodontal disease may include professional teeth cleanings, antibiotics, surgical procedures to repair damaged tissue, and maintaining good oral hygiene.

4. Abrasion and erosion

Abrasion and erosion are processes in which tooth enamel is destroyed due to mechanical wear or chemical exposure. This may occur when using too much pressure on the toothbrush when brushing teeth, drinking acidic drinks, or consuming too many acidic foods.

Treatment: The treatment of abrasion and erosion involves using specialized toothpaste and specific procedures, such as the fusion of composite restorations to restore damaged enamel.

5. Temporary expansion of the tooth canal

Temporary enlargement of the tooth canal can occur due to dental procedures such as root canal treatment. This can cause severe pain in the tooth, especially when eating hot or cold foods.

Treatment: This condition usually goes away on its own, but if the pain is severe, painkillers may be prescribed. Sometimes, the dentist may reconsider the root canal treatment to prevent further problems.

6. Tooth sensitivity

Dental sensitivity is a condition in which teeth react to irritants such as cold or hot drinks, sweet or sour foods, or even exposure to air. This may be caused by exposure of sensitive tooth parts due to enamel erosion, gum sensitivity, or other reasons.

Treatment: To reduce tooth sensitivity, specialized toothpaste and rinse containing fluoride or other active ingredients may help strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.

7. Dental injuries

Dental injuries can be caused by various factors, such as accidents, sports injuries, or falls. These can result in tooth damage, cracks, or the loss of an entire tooth. When an injury occurs, acute pain, bleeding, and swelling of the tissues occur.

Treatment: Treatment depends on the type and extent of the injury. It may include restoring the damaged tooth, using a mouthguard on the damaged tooth, or other dental procedures.

8. Dental abscess

A dental abscess is an inflammation around the tooth root or in the tissues surrounding the tooth. This is often caused by an infection, which can occur due to untreated tooth decay, injury, or other causes. A dental abscess is accompanied by intense pain, swelling, and even purulent discharge.

Treatment: Treatment for a dental abscess includes antibiotics to fight the infection, draining the abscess, and possibly root canal therapy.

9. Chronic pressing or grinding of teeth (Bruxism)

Bruxism is an undesirable habit of clenching or grinding your teeth that can occur while you are asleep or awake. This can lead to tooth wear, sensitivity, and even jaw pain.

Treatment: Treatment for bruxism includes the use of night guards to reduce stress on the teeth and jaws, as well as stress management and relaxation techniques to reduce the severity of bruxism.