Toothaches can be frustrating and dreadful — it is the inflammation or pain in and around your mouth. Your tooth may be sensitive to cold or hot temperatures, or you may experience trouble when chewing something hard. However, some cases are serious and need early treatment to avoid permanent loss of teeth.
Causes of Toothache
You may have Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of your gums usually due to insufficient brushing and flossing. Gums become red and inflamed, and if untreated, can lead to tooth and bone loss.
You may be Suffering from a Cavity
Cavities are holes in your teeth that are a result of decay. Bacteria feeds on the sugars in your mouth and the acid dissolves the outer layer of teeth called enamel. It is important that you visit your doctor regularly to check the health of your teeth, but to also make an appointment as soon as you suspect a cavity. Left uncheck, you may require a root canal.
Daily Clenching and Teeth Grinding
You may clench or grind your teeth while sleeping. It commonly happens to people who have sleep disorders. As a result, there may be jaw pain and headaches, but grinding also removes enamel and can cause teeth to loosen or crack.
You may have an Abscess
Particles of food may get stuck between your teeth and move further into your gums. It can produce a hole or pocket between your teeth and gums called an abscess. Food debris starts collecting in that area, which can lead to infection.
The other reasons for toothache are cracked teeth, TMJ disorder, sensitive teeth, inflamed tooth pulp, impacted tooth, and other diseases that can also cause pain such as sinuses.
In 2017, 64.0% of adults visited their dentist. But, people don’t feel symptoms when the problem initially starts. They usually wait to visit their dentists after months when it gets severe and needs considerable treatment, like a root canal. To avoid an infection and loss of teeth, be sure to visit your dentist on the very first day of pain.
If you live in the Plano, TX area and are dealing with tooth pain, contact our office today to schedule an appointment with our dentist.