What is toothache?

Author: Dr Behnam Aminnejad. Posted: 09.01.24

A toothache is a pain in or around a tooth. It is usually caused by problems with the tooth or the surrounding tissues. Common causes of toothaches include:

  • Dental Cavities (Tooth Decay): Cavities are holes or structural damage in the teeth caused by bacterial activity that leads to the breakdown of tooth enamel.
  • Gum Infections: Infections of the gums (gingivitis or periodontitis) can cause pain and discomfort, especially if they affect the roots of the teeth.
  • Dental Abscess: An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around the tooth root or in the gums. It can cause intense pain and may be accompanied by swelling and inflammation.
  • Tooth Fracture: A broken or cracked tooth can be painful, especially if the fracture extends into the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
  • Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth, or third molars, can sometimes become impacted, causing pain and discomfort. This often requires dental extraction.
  • Sinus Infection: In some cases, a sinus infection can cause referred pain to the upper teeth, leading to a toothache.
  • Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Grinding or clenching the teeth, especially during sleep, can lead to tooth sensitivity and pain.
  • Trauma: Injury to the teeth or jaws can result in toothaches.
In Summary

Toothaches can vary in intensity, ranging from mild discomfort to severe, throbbing pain. It's important to see a dentist if you experience a persistent toothache, as it may indicate an underlying dental issue that requires attention and treatment. The dentist will assess the cause of the toothache and recommend appropriate measures to address the problem.


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Toothache and causes, Dr Behnam Aminnejad

 

 



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