Tooth ache is the number one complaint of clients at a dental office. Tooth ache can range from mild discomfort to absolutely unbearable pain. Here are some of the most common causes of tooth ache;
1. Dentine sensitivity
2. Dental caries/ pulpitis
3. Periodontal diseases
4. Trigeminal neuralgia
Dentine Sensitivity
It is that sharp pain that is felt when something cold, hot or sweet touches the tooth. It usually stops a few seconds after the offending agent is removed. It can be caused by dental caries, diet (frequent intake of acidic food), poor tooth brushing technique or seen in people with naturally sensitive teeth.
Dental caries/ pulpitis
This presents as a cavity; the cavity may be obvious or covert. The pain here usually starts out as dentine sensitivity however, with time, it becomes more frequent, severe and lasts for longer until the pain becomes spontaneous and won’t go away until a pain killer is taken. It disturbs sleep and the pain spreads to other parts of the face. It is advisable to treat dental caries once it is noticed to prevent progression or complications.
Periodontal diseases
The pain in this condition is usually dull and more of a discomfort. It can sometimes be sharp and associated with bleeding gums, mouth odour and food getting stuck in between the teeth. There may also be ulcers, gum swellings and changes in the colour of the gums present.
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Also known as suicide disease. Just as the name implies, the pain in this disease is very severe and sharp. It spreads to one side of the face when a person touches the ”trigger zone”. The ”trigger zone may be within the mouth or outside the mouth.
A major differentiating feature between trigeminal neuralgia and dental caries is that the pain here does not disturb sleep and it is not relived by painkillers.
Most of the causes of tooth ache are preventable once the causative factor is discovered on time. It is therefore advisable to go for regular dental checkups.
Photo credit: Wikipedia