While most people associate a toothache with poor oral hygiene, there’s more to that. Of course, oral hygiene matters and it’s one of the leading toothache causes. However, there are many other causes that may result in sudden tooth pain or a throbbing tooth pain that comes and goes. Let’s delve deeper and get to know them:
Cavities
This is one of the most common causes of toothache. It is basically a small hole in the mouth, which is caused by an incorrect brushing technique that leaves food debris and bacteria behind.
In most cases, cavities are hardly noticeable during the initial stages. This is why most patients only get to know about them when they have reached an advanced, more painful stage. If left untreated, a cavity can result in infection or tooth loss. Both can be quite painful conditions. Therefore, as soon as you have noticed a cavity, schedule a visit to your dentist at the earliest. After examining the tooth, they will recommend the necessary treatment for toothache caused by cavities.
Abscessed Tooth
Also called pump chamber, it is basically an infection that lies within the tooth, around its root. Apart from severe pain, this infection can result in swollen gums and an infected root. In the worst-case scenario, it could cause bone loss at the infection site.
Some of the most common signs of this condition include gum swelling, darkening of the gums, and throbbing pain. As the pain is severe, you need emergency dental treatment. However, some home-based toothache remedies, such as the use of coconut oil can provide temporary respite. Nevertheless, you need to visit a dentist as soon as possible for a permanent solution.
Injury
At times, a bad fall, blow to the face, or an accident can result in an injury in the mouth, possibly impacting your teeth. This can result in toothache causing headache and eye pain. In such a condition, taking pain medications or using home-based remedies won’t help. Even if they have provided you with temporary respite, you need to see a dentist so that they could examine your mouth and see the extent of the damage caused. Based on their diagnosis, they will recommend the treatment(s).
Gum Disease
Also called periodontal disease, gum disease nearly impacts over three-quarters of Americans who are 35 or older. Among different gum diseases, gingivitis is the most common one while periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease, also impacts many people.
When a person suffers from gum disease, they suffer from period pain in their teeth because of plaque buildup. Leaving it untreated can cause tooth loss.
How Long Does a Toothache Last?
This totally depends on the main cause of toothache pain. In most cases, the pain is consistent; however, its intensity may increase or decrease occasionally. The only option you have at your disposal is getting toothache treatment from a dentist since remedies only offer temporary solutions. They just alleviate the pain and do not treat the ‘cause’.
So, instead of looking for ways to get rid of toothache, schedule an appointment with your dentist. If the pain is unbearable, visit a dental care clinic that takes emergency patients. You can find plenty in your area.