5 Common Causes Behind Your Toothache

Toothaches can be incredibly uncomfortable and bothersome. They can range from mild to severe pain, and they are usually indicative of a problem that needs attention. Knowing the common causes behind your toothache can help you to figure out what is going on with your teeth and gums and how to best address the issue.

1. Tooth Decay 

One of the most common causes of a toothache is tooth decay, which occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth. Plaque contains bacteria that irritates the enamel, resulting in cavities that cause pain and discomfort. If you experience frequent toothaches, it’s important to visit your dentist for an assessment as soon as possible.

2. Gum Disease

Another common cause of toothaches is gum disease or periodontal disease. Gum disease is caused by bacterial infections in the gums which can lead to inflammation, redness, swelling, and pain around the affected area. In order to prevent further damage, it’s important to seek treatment from your dentist right away if you suspect you may have gum disease.                

3. Infection

Infections are another possible cause of toothaches because they can spread to other parts of your mouth or body if left untreated for too long. An infected tooth could be caused by a cavity or a tooth fracture that has not been addressed quickly enough.

Infections can also result from trauma due to an accident or injury that affects the mouth or jaw area. If you suspect an infection is causing your toothache, make sure you see a dentist immediately so they can diagnose and treat it accordingly.

4. Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, can be a major source of toothaches due to their awkward position in the mouth. Because these teeth are located at the back of the mouth, they may come in incorrectly or partially and cause pain and discomfort as they press against other teeth.

5. TMJ Disorder 

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is another possible cause of a toothache that often goes overlooked by many people because TMJ relates more closely with jaw pain than it does with tooth pain itself; however, if your jaw joints become misaligned due to injury or trauma they can put pressure on surrounding nerves which can then cause toothaches in certain areas of the mouth.

In order to properly diagnose TMJ disorder your dentist will usually take X-rays as well as examine the alignment of your jaw joints using special imaging techniques like MRI scans.

Treatment for TMJ disorder usually involves physical therapy exercises designed specifically for that purpose as well as custom-made orthotics which help correct any misalignments in the lower half of the face including both jaws and teeth.

Toothache Treatment

Dealing with toothache can be quite unbearable and frustrating, as it tends to disrupt our daily activities and overall well-being. There are, however, various methods that can be employed to help relieve pain.

One effective remedy is rinsing your mouth with warm salt water, which can kill bacteria and reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can be used to help lessen dental pain and reduce swelling in the affected area.

In addition, applying a cold compress to the cheek near the throbbing tooth may help constrict blood vessels and dull the ache. Moreover, using clove oil by dabbing a cotton swab onto the affected tooth and gums may also offer some relief, as it possesses pain-relieving and antibacterial properties.

Also, fluoride toothpaste is an important part of a comprehensive dental care routine as it helps to strengthen teeth and protect them from cavities, dental decay and other common oral health issues.

While these measures provide temporary relief, it is crucial to consult a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment to expeditiously address the underlying cause of the toothache.

Whether it’s a mild ache or a constant throbbing pain, no one should ever have to live with a toothache without seeking medical attention right away! Being aware of the common causes behind your toothache will allow you to take steps towards identifying and addressing any underlying dental problems that may be causing your discomfort so you can get back on track with good oral hygiene practices once again! If you feel like something isn’t quite right with one of your teeth, don’t hesitate to seek medical care and contact your dentist today for more information about potential treatments for your condition!