Fix Tooth Pain & Toothache
Continuous and throbbing tooth pain are common signs that a tooth is damaged. Toothaches are often an early symptom of a cavity or tooth decay. Throbbing pain may also exist when there is infection in the tooth or surrounding gums.
In many cases, toothaches are caused by an infection or inflammation. This is a condition which is referred to as pulpitis. The soft, pink pulp found inside the teeth, is vital in keeping it alive and healthy. The pulp of the tooth also contains tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. When these are exposed in any way, it can be quite painful. In cases where there is a cavity or crack in the tooth, it is exposed to air and germs which can cause additional problems. This can result in irritation, infection and ultimately cause tooth pain.
In addition to the throbbing pain which is most common for patients with a toothache, other symptoms include the following:
- Bad taste or foul mouth odor
- Chills and fever
- Constant, dull ache
- Discomfort when eating
- Mouth or gum swelling
- Pain or sensitivity of the teeth, gums and jaw
- Pus or white fluid leakage
- Sharp pain with chewing
- Tingling sensation
Both adults and children can experience a toothache. In the event you experience any of the symptoms listed about, follow up with the dentist immediately. In order to determine the source of the pain, the dentist will examine the teeth and may obtain an X-ray.
The following are common causes for tooth pain and toothaches.
One of the most common reasons patients experience tooth pain is from decay or cavities. This occurs when bacteria is able to penetrate through the hard outside layer of enamel. It is normal for bacteria to be present in a healthy mouth. However, an abundance of sugar and other food debris on the teeth can result in an excess of bad bacteria which can forms a sticky plaque which collects on the teeth. Some forms of bacteria produce an acid that causes cavities and holes. In some cases, tooth decay appears as a small white, brown, or black spot.
Dentist are able to repair these holes which can help alleviate the pain. This type of treatment typically involves a thorough cleaning to remove the plaque. This is followed by a filling which patches the cavity. In some cases, antibiotics are also used to treat the infection.
When some or all of the pulp inside the tooth is dead, this creates an abscess. The dead tissue form a “pocket” where bacteria and pus are able to collect. Infection or inflammation of the tooth can also result in an abscess. An abscess can also occur when a damaged tooth is not promptly treated. This occurs when the crack or hole allows bacteria inside the tooth.
Treatment for a tooth abscess often includes antibiotics to kill the infection-causing bacteria, in addition to cleaning and draining the abscess. When an abscess is caused by gum disease, the gums will be cleaned and treated. In cases where the abscess is caused by decay or a crack in the tooth, a root canal is typically required. When the tooth is damaged beyond repair and needs to be removed, an implant is commonly used to replace tooth.