Tooth pain, otherwise referred to as a toothache, is a common condition that many people will encounter during their lifetime. They can range in severity and can be caused by several different factors, from cavities to having food lodged between the teeth to serious bacterial infections. While tooth pain can sometimes resolve itself on its own, it is always a good idea to get it checked out by your dentist.
We’ve broken down what a toothache is and some of the main reasons why you might be experiencing tooth pain when chewing.
Pain When Chewing: Common Symptoms of a Toothache?
There are several different symptoms you can experience that can indicate that you may have a toothache. The most common symptom is general pain, which can range from dull to sharp and can be constant or sporadic. However, there are several other symptoms that can indicate that you may have something going on with your teeth, including:
- Swelling in the gums or face
- Fever
- Headaches or migraines
- Bad odor or taste from the mouth
- Abscess
If you find yourself suffering from any of these symptoms, it is always best to visit your dentist to have them looked at. While a toothache may sometimes resolve on its own, they often require proper dental treatment to prevent them from getting any worse and causing further damage to your teeth.
Dental Causes of Tooth Aches
When it comes to experiencing pain when chewing, there are several dental-related issues that can cause you discomfort. Cavities are common culprits, as the decay on your tooth can cause an infection of the dental nerve, resulting in pain. Fractured teeth or dislodged crowns or fillings can also cause pain, as they leave the root of the tooth exposed. If you find yourself waking up in the mornings with tooth pain, then it could be caused by clenching or grinding your teeth in your sleep. If you think that one of these causes is behind your tooth pain, then be sure to schedule a dental exam with your dentist to get treatment. It’s always best to treat a toothache early, as the longer you leave it, the worse the pain can become.
Non-Dental Causes of Tooth Aches
While many toothaches have dental-related causes, there are some non-dental issues that can result in tooth pain. For example, sinus problems, muscle pain and cluster headaches can all lead to toothaches and cause you pain when chewing. In the instance that you visit your dentist to try to resolve your tooth pain and they don’t find a dental-related cause, they will advise you to visit your doctor to try to rule out a non-dental cause for the pain.
A toothache is never fun, which is why it’s important to get it checked out by your dentist sooner rather than later. Your dentist will be able to provide you with treatment that will get you feeling back to normal and will prevent the problem area from worsening over time.
Are you suffering from tooth pain? We can help! Contact us today to book an appointment!