San Ramon Family Dentists Discusses Causes of Toothache
Tooth pain, or toothache as others prefer to call it, is one of the most common dental problems. When we experience tooth pain, we always blame it to tooth decay. But that is not always the case; there are other several reasons as to why you suffer from such tooth discomfort. Here is a list of the top causes of tooth pain:
1. Tooth Decay
Commonly, tooth decay is the culprit. It is the dark or brown spots visible in the teeth. Tooth decay occurs when there are bacteria build up. This starts with the enamel and can go deeper into the pulp and nerves causing toothache.
2. Sensitivity
You have a sensitive tooth when you feel sudden jolt after you eat or drink hot or cold foods and liquids. Tooth sensitivity is due to inflammation of the pulp tissues inside a tooth.
3. Bruxism
Grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw is called bruxism. Bruxism causes tooth pain because of the damaged tooth and injured gums that you get from excessive teeth grinding and clenching. Bruxism can also cause malocclusion. It is when the teeth and jaw do not line up correctly.
4. Cracked Tooth
Cracked tooth is characterized of tiny fractures on the teeth that are not identified by x-rays, especially if the fracture is under the gum line. This happens when you chew too hard and puts pressure on your teeth.
5. Gum Infection/Disease
There are two stages of gum disease. Gingivitis is considered to be the mildest gum disease. It causes the gums to swell and bleed easily. When left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis. When you have a periodontitis, the gums and bones that hold your teeth are destroyed and pulled away, creating spaces between your tooth.
Regularly visiting your dentist can help in attaining a good oral hygiene and can reduce discomfort and tooth pain.