Toothache and its Causes
Toothache is an uncomfortable condition that many people experience at some point in their lives. It can be felt as aching, stinging, shooting or sharp pain and can seriously affect a person’s quality of life. In this article, we will examine the causes, types and how toothache can be treated.
Types of Toothache
Toothaches can occur in different ways, depending on different causes. Here are the most common types of toothache:
1. Caries Pain
Tooth decay occurs when the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth decay under the influence of bacteria. This pain can increase, especially in contact with cold, hot or sweet foods.
2. Gum Pain
Gum infections or receding gums can cause pain in the gums. This pain is felt in sensitive areas on the gums.
3. Tooth Nerve Pain
Inflammation of the dental nerve or problems on the inside of the tooth can cause a sharp and severe pain. This pain can worsen when it comes into contact with hot or cold food.
4. Gingival Abscess Pain
A gingival abscess is an infection that creates an inflamed cavity between the gum and the tooth root. This can cause severe pain, swelling and even fever.
5. Tooth Fracture Pain
Tooth fractures can cause pain as a result of injuries that affect the outer surface or internal structure of the tooth. A broken tooth hurts when it comes into contact with hot or cold food.
6. Tooth Brushing Pain
Excessively hard brushing or using the wrong brush can damage the tooth enamel. In this case, pain may be felt during tooth brushing.
Causes of Toothache
Toothache can have many causes. Here are the most common causes:
1. Tooth decay
Tooth decay is caused by the erosion of the enamel and dentin layers caused by bacteria. Bacteria break down food residues to produce acids, which decay the tooth.
2. Gum Problems
Gingivitis (gingivitis or periodontitis) can cause gum pain. These problems cause swelling, bleeding and pain in the gums.
3. Tooth Nerve Problems
Dental nerve inflammation (pulpitis) is caused by inflammation of the nerve tissue inside the tooth. The pain is usually severe and sharp.
4. Tooth fractures
Tooth fractures are caused by injury to the enamel or dentin layer of the tooth. These fractures can cause pain when they come into contact with hot or cold food.
5. Gingival Abscess
A gingival abscess occurs when bacteria cause an infection under the gums. These infections cause severe pain and swelling.
6. Tooth Brushing Mistakes
Using a brush too hard or incorrectly during tooth brushing can damage tooth enamel and cause pain.
Treatment of Toothache
Treatment of toothache varies depending on the cause of the pain. Treatment options may include:
Treatment of tooth decay (restorations).
Treatment of gum problems.
Treatment of dental nerve problems (root canal treatment).
Treatment of tooth fractures (restorations or crowns).
Treatment of gingival abscesses (antibiotics or gum surgery).
Correcting tooth brushing errors.
A person experiencing toothache should always consult a dentist. Toothache can be a symptom of an underlying health problem and should not be neglected.
Toothache is an uncomfortable condition that can negatively affect quality of life. Although there are different causes of toothache, it may be possible to relieve the pain with early diagnosis and treatment. To maintain dental health, it is important to go for regular dental check-ups and pay attention to dental hygiene. It is also important to consult a specialist when symptoms of toothache appear to determine the cause of the pain and initiate appropriate treatment.
