What causes toothaches? Understanding toothache causes may help you avoid certain issues in the future. At the very least, it will help you know where to go to seek treatment. Listed below are some common causes of toothaches, along with solutions for each.
Common Causes of Toothaches
Toot decay is the most common cause of tooth pain. When enamel wears down, teeth become more sensitive to pressure and temperature changes. If you have a cavity, these uncomfortable sensations may feel even more intense because they are nearing your roots. Your dentist can evaluate your smile to determine the presence of tooth decay. If you have a cavity or thin enamel, your dentist may recommend getting a filling, fluoride treatment, a root canal, or other remedies.
Oral Infections
An oral infection can lead to tremendous pain that may not subside with over-the-counter pain relief. In this case, your doctor or dentist can prescribe a round of antibiotics to combat the infection. However, most oral infections are a byproduct of tooth decay and other oral health issues. Treating the infection with antibiotics will only treat the symptoms temporarily. After that, you will need to seek a treatment for the true source of the problem.
Teeth Grinding, Clenching and TMJ Disorder
If you grind your teeth at night, you may experience a toothache, jaw pain or headaches. The same can occur if you clench your teeth when you feel stressed, nervous or frightened. Finally, a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) may lead to jaw pain and other oral pain. This condition is caused by a misalignment in your teeth, which creates an imbalance of pressure. Even if your teeth appear perfectly straight, a minor misalignment can lead to major pain over time.
If you are concerned about teeth grinding, clenching or TMJ pain, contact Clinton Dental Center. We would be happy to evaluate the source of your toothache and provider a personalized solution to address it.
Sinus Infections
Sinus infections are less common but still prevalent causes of toothaches. Sinusitis can cause your upper teeth to be in pain. In this case, you will experience sinus congestion and tenderness on your face. You may talk to your primary care doctor about treatment. Relieving the sinus infection should take care of the pressure on your upper teeth.
