A toothache is a pain in or around a tooth. It can be caused by a number of things, including cavities, gum disease, and cracked teeth. Toothaches can be mild or severe, and they can be constant or intermittent.Causes of toothache
The most common causes of toothache are:
- Cavities: Cavities are holes in the teeth that are caused by bacteria. Bacteria can eat away at the tooth enamel, which is the hard outer layer of the tooth. Once the enamel is gone, the bacteria can reach the softer inner layers of the tooth, causing pain.
- Gum disease: Gum disease is an infection of the gums. It can be caused by poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing and flossing regularly. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss, but it can also cause toothaches.
- Cracked teeth: Cracked teeth can be caused by trauma, such as biting down on a hard object. They can also be caused by wear and tear over time. Cracked teeth can cause pain, and they can also lead to infection.
Other causes of toothache include:
- Abscess: An abscess is a collection of pus that can form around a tooth. It is usually caused by an infection.
- Sinus infection: A sinus infection can cause pain in the upper teeth and jaw.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: Trigeminal neuralgia is a nerve disorder that can cause pain in the face and teeth.
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder: TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the joints that connect the jawbone to the skull. It can cause pain in the face, jaw, and teeth.
Symptoms of toothache
The most common symptom of toothache is pain in or around a tooth. The pain can be mild or severe, and it can be constant or intermittent. Other symptoms of toothache include:
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks
- Swelling of the gums or face
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Bad breath
- Fever
Treatment for toothache
The treatment for toothache depends on the underlying cause and it can be determined by Dr. Wang with an evaluation. If the toothache is caused by a cavity, the Dr. Wang will fill the cavity. If the toothache is caused by gum disease, Dr. Wang will clean the teeth and remove any plaque or tartar. If the toothache is caused by a cracked tooth, Dr. Wang may repair the crack or extract the tooth.
Other treatments for toothache include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to relieve the pain of a toothache.
- Antibiotics: If the toothache is caused by an infection, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics.
Prevention of toothache
The best way to prevent toothache is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. It is also important to maintain regular checkups and cleanings.
Here are some additional tips for preventing toothache:
- Avoid eating hard foods and candies.
- Avoid ice chewing
- Wear a mouth guard if you grind your teeth at night.
- Get regular checkups and cleanings from your dentist.
If you have a toothache, it is important to see a dentist such as Dr. Wang as soon as possible, so that he can determine the underlying cause and recommend the best course of treatment.