Is Your Toothache a Sign of Something Serious?

Almost all of us have probably experienced at least a toothache in our life. However, a toothache should not be something you should learn to live with. A seemingly innocent toothache can indicate a more serious problem affecting your oral health. If you are experiencing severe pain, have had a toothache for more than a day, or have other symptoms like headache or fever, you need to visit your dentist immediately.

When Should I See My Dentist?

A toothache can indicate a more serious problem that needs immediate attention. Immediately see your dentist if you experience severe pain; toothache lasting for 24 to 48 hours; fever, earache, or any other kind of mouth pain aside from toothache. Your dentist will determine your medical history and perform an exam. They will also examine everything related to the toothache, along with your nose and neck, which can require additional tests like x-rays.

What Causes a Toothache?

Toothaches can be caused by various problems. Although the pain can fade after a short while, it can still point to something serious happening in your mouth and even your body. If left untreated, this problem can grow into a more serious problem. Some of the common causes of toothache are cavities, abscessed teeth, gingivitis, damaged fillings, fractured tooth, and teeth grinding.

Cavities are one of the most common toothache causes. This happens when the dentin or enamel of the tooth has decayed resulting in damage to the tooth.
Damaged fillings can lead to toothaches because of breaking or cracking from being worn down.
Abscessed teeth can be dangerous and painful. This happens when the inside of the teeth becomes infected which can spread to other parts of the body.
Cracked or fractured teeth happen when you chew something too hard but can also become common with aging.
Grinding or clenching your teeth is usually caused by stress. Excessive grinding can cause enamel erosion, leading to cavities and teeth fractures.
Gingivitis can feel like a toothache, but it does not affect the tooth itself; rather, it is on the tissue and bone around the tooth. It can lead to tooth loss because of the breaking down of the tissue surrounding the affected tooth.

Symptoms of a Toothache

Toothaches are usually a sign of a deeper issue like an abscess, tooth fracture, or cavity. This means that you might experience other symptoms related to the underlying problem. The toothache itself can be sharp or throbbing and can last for various time durations. Along with a toothache, also be on the lookout for fever, headaches, bad taste in the mouth because of discharge, and swelling in the face and gums.

Getting Relief from a Toothache

Whether you are experiencing sharp pain or lingering pain that keeps you awake at night, you obviously want relief from it. Although visiting the dentist is your best move to fight it, there are a few things you can take to help alleviate the pain until your next dentist appointment. For emergency toothache relief, remove any debris trapped between teeth; apply a cold compress to your cheek; swish warm water in the mouth, or take an over-the-counter painkiller. There are lots of reasons why you are experiencing a toothache. It might be because of any of the reasons listed above or it could be something else. What is important is that you realize that it could be a sign of a serious health issue. If the pain is constant or it regularly comes back, it might be time to schedule an appointment with your dentist to get it checked