6 Common Oral Issues That Can Cause Toothache

It might be challenging to pinpoint the precise cause of your pain, despite the fact that ache is your body’s method of alerting you to a problem. A toothache is a common issue that can develop due to a variety of causes. Symptoms of a toothache may also include headaches, fever, and swelling. If you have a severe toothache or one that lasts more than a day, you should see your dentist as soon as you can. Here is a list of six common oral issues that can cause toothache.

1. Cavities

Cavities can easily be avoided by brushing and flossing on a regular basis. However, for many people, a cavity is required to begin treating oral hygiene and dental care seriously; at worst, tooth decay is required. What begins as a cavity that damages the enamel of a tooth progresses to destroy the dentine, producing pain and sensitivity. 

Mild cavities can be easily treated at the dental clinic with the help of tooth fillings. But when tooth decay reaches the pulp or the core layer of the tooth, it creates a strong pain that needs emergency dental care.

2. Impacted wisdom tooth

Wisdom teeth erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. While these teeth may not necessarily cause problems with the rest of your permanent teeth, they can become impacted, which means they become caught in the jaw behind the permanent teeth. These wisdom teeth will need to be removed if they cause discomfort, an infection, or impairment to the permanent teeth.

3. Tooth fracture

Tooth fractures occur when your tooth is damaged or broken. Tooth fractures can occur as a result of direct trauma to the tooth, such as an accident or injury, or as a result of biting down on hard foods (such as ice). Tooth fractures can occur gradually over time, which is why many people associate the symptoms with a throbbing toothache that comes and goes.

You are most likely in pain because something has entered through the fractured tooth and is aggravating the pulp. A dental veneer, crown, or filling can effectively fix a tooth fracture. If the tooth is significantly damaged and infected, a root canal may be required.

4. Bruxism

This condition, also known as teeth grinding, is most commonly caused by stress. People commonly grind their teeth at sleep, which can result in dental wear and tear, tooth, neck, and jaw discomfort, and recurring headaches. Extreme bruxism can also result in chipped and fractured teeth, causing even additional pain. To avoid additional tooth injury, your dentist will design a custom-fitted mouth guard.

5. Tooth infection

A dental infection can be quite dangerous. Infection of the soft tissue in the inner canal of a tooth can be caused by decay or trauma. If left untreated, such an infection can endanger both your teeth and your health. The virus may enter your bloodstream and spread throughout your body. 

Keep in mind that any oral infection needs immediate medical attention. A root canal performed by your dentist may be able to save your tooth. Antibiotics may also be recommended, and additional steps may be taken, if necessary, to help manage and clear the infection.

6. Gum disease

Gum disease of any kind causes inflamed, red, or bleeding gums, as well as tooth pains. Fortunately, gum disease is avoidable. Brushing and flossing every day can help moderate gum disease diminish and eventually disappear. However, if it becomes too severe, it might result in tooth and bone loss. If you have gum inflammation, see your dentist as soon as possible for professional treatment.