Toothache is often described as one of the worst pains to experience. It can occur in the teeth or in the jaw, and may have different causes. Usually, the pain begins suddenly, and can range from a mild discomfort to severe pain. It can come and go, but it can also be constant, and made worse by eating or drinking. It may get progressively worse as time goes on, so it is essential to see a dentist as soon as you can.
Why does toothache happen?
Toothache occurs when the nerve of the tooth becomes inflamed. This is caused by a number of reasons, including:
- Tooth decay
- Receding gums
- A cracked tooth
- Broken or loose fillings
Other reasons for toothache that don’t involve the dental pulp include:
- Injury to bone
- Sinus inflammation
- Eruption and impaction of wisdom teeth
- TMJ dysfunction
How is toothache treated?
How toothache is treated depends on the cause of the pain. First, your mouth is examined, and an x-ray may be taken of your teeth to help identify the issue.
If the toothache is a result of tooth decay, the decay will be removed and replaced with a filling.
If your toothache is due to a broken or loose filling, the damaged filling will be replaced, removing any decay during the procedure.
If the dental pulp is infected, a course of antibiotics or root canal treatment may be necessary.