If you have ever experienced a toothache you would know it is not pleasant. Dental pain is one of the most common reasons why people visit their dentist.
A toothache can usually be treated easily and in many cases can be prevented.
Outlined below is a list of the 5 most common causes of dental pain and what you can do to reduce your risk.
1. Tooth Decay
The most common cause of a toothache for children, teens and adults is tooth decay. Decay occurs when the bacteria in plaque produces acids that attack the tooth enamel. This occurs when foods and drinks containing sugars are consumed.
Teeth have three layers the hard outer layer (enamel), the middle layer (dentin) and the centre of the tooth (pulp) which has nerves and blood vessels. The more layers that are affected by decay, the worse the damage.
The acids produced often attack the teeth for more than 20 minutes after you eat. Over time, these acids destroy tooth enamel and eventually cause tooth decay.
Brushing and flossing every day will help reduce this risk, as well regular 6 monthly dental examination appointments.
Regular dental examinations can help avoid pain and more expensive treatments as potential problems are detected early.
2. Gum Disease
Gum disease can cause pain as well as red, tender and bleeding gums.
Gum disease is usually caused by a build up of plaque. There are 2 stages of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is an early stage of gum disease which if not treated can lead to periodontitis.
Periodontitis causes an inflammation of the gum and bone tissues which in turn leads to swelling, loss of bone around the teeth and dull pain.
Removing dental plaque is imperative in reducing your risk of gum disease. Regular brushing and flossing will significantly reduce your risk as well as regular dental examinations and hygiene appointments.
3. Accidents
Often accidents result in fractured or broken teeth which can cause pain especially when the fracture or break runs through to the nerve of the tooth.
Accidents that occur during sport can be prevented by wearing a custom made mouthguard.
To avoid the potential for damage through other types of accidents it is important to maintain a good oral health routine, including using a fluoridated toothpaste.
Weak enamel can be naturally strengthened if it is given the necessary nutrients and minerals to do so. This involves eating plenty of dark leafy vegetables, dairy and protein-rich foods. Fizzy drinks and juice should be avoided and replaced with water.
4. Bruxism
Affecting both children and adults, the main causes of tooth grinding are stress, anxiety, tension, anger and frustration.
Bruxism can fracture or chip your teeth if done over a prolonged period of time.
This in turn puts excess stress on the tissues that support your teeth and can cause pain in not only your teeth, but also in the jaw joints and muscles too.
5. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Misaligned or impacted wisdom teeth that fail to erupt completely through the gum can sometimes cause pain.
Typically it occurs when there is not enough space for the tooth to erupt or when it is putting extra pressure on the adjacent teeth.
Partially erupted wisdom teeth are also very hard to clean. Food can often get stuck which over time can cause tooth decay.
Swelling or inflammation of the gum with a sharp, prolonged pain can often be experienced.
Do You Have A Toothache?
If you are experiencing dental pain it is important to get your dentist to check it out immediately.
Please call Jess on 07 5443 2800 as soon as you can. She will do her best to make a same day appointment for you.
Alternatively if you are reading this after our practice hours of 8.30am to 5pm please fill out this Request An Appointment form and we will call you back early the next working day.
