What is Causing My Toothache?
August 6, 2018
Toothaches are associated with pain and discomfort, which can make it difficult to bite and chew food. Since a toothache can be a sign of tooth decay, gum disease, or another oral health concern, it is important to see a dentist so the problem can be identified and treated before it progresses. During a dental exam, the dentist can determine what is causing the toothache and treat the problem. At Park Crossing Dentistry, Dr. Richard Bateman, Dr. Joshua Neubauer, and Dr. Emerald Powell are your Charlotte, NC, dentists for treating toothaches.
Causes of Toothaches
There are several possible causes of toothaches. In some cases, a toothache is a sign of a more serious oral health problem, such as the formation of an abscess below the affected tooth. Your Charlotte, NC, dentist can identify the cause of the toothache and recommend the appropriate course of treatment. A toothache can be caused by any of the following conditions or habits:
- Clenching or grinding the teeth frequently
- An abscess below the affected tooth
- An impacted wisdom tooth
- Damaged dental fillings
- A fractured tooth
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
Treating Toothaches
The method or procedure used to treat your toothache will depend on what is causing the toothache. Toothaches due to decay can be treated by removing infected areas inside the tooth, cleaning out the tooth, and filling it it with dental filling. The tooth will be restored and the aching will subside. A similar procedure is performed to treat an abscessed tooth. Infected areas inside the tooth and root are removed. The tooth is then cleaned and filled in.
Once the source of the toothache is treated, the aching will diminish. Toothaches caused by impacted teeth can be treated by extracting the tooth. Aches caused by damaged dental fillings can be treated by replacing the filling. In cases of fractured teeth, once the fracture is repaired, the toothache should stop. For toothaches caused by frequent grinding or clenching of the teeth, mouth guards can be worn to protect the teeth from excess wear and tear, which can help the aching to subside. A dentist can determine what type of treatment is needed in your case.
A toothache can be caused by several different factors or conditions. Whether your toothache is caused by tooth decay, a fracture, or some other factor, see a dentist for relief from the pain and discomfort. For treatment of your toothache, schedule an appointment with Dr. Bateman, Dr. Neubauer, or Dr. Powell, your Charlotte, NC, dentists, by calling Park Crossing Dentistry at (704) 541-5059.