Whether it’s a dull pain or a throbbing ache, it’s never pleasant to suffer from a toothache. It could also signal a serious dental issue. Here are some causes of dental pain and when you should seek dental care services in Parker, CO.
Gum Causes for Toothaches
It’s not always the teeth that cause toothaches. Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) can be the cause of your toothaches. Inflammation of the gums can cause receding gums, which leaves your teeth more vulnerable to acid, food particles, and debris. Dental abscesses, caused by bacterial infections, are also a gum-related issue that can cause inflammation and severe toothaches.
Teeth-Related Causes for Toothaches
Of course, there are a few tooth issues that can cause toothaches, including the following:
- Decay and Cavities. Bacteria in your mouth produce acid and wear down teeth enamel, eventually exposing the nerves of your teeth and causing pain.
- Fractures and Cracks. Hard candies may be delightful, but hard food can crack your teeth and lead to persistent pain. Like cavities, a tooth crack can expose the nerves under the enamel of your teeth.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth. With modern advances in dental care services in Parker, CO, the need for wisdom teeth has reduced substantially. Wisdom teeth are essentially backup molars that often have nowhere to go. When left unattended, they’ll grow into your other teeth, shifting them more closely together and causing discomfort and pain.
- Teeth Grinding. Also referred to as bruxism, teeth grinding can wear your teeth down, stress your jaw, and strain muscles in your jaw, leading to tooth and jaw pain.
When to See a Dentist
If your toothache persists for more than a day, make an appointment to see your dentist. Even a small toothache may have underlying issues that when left unattended can become major health problems.
Visit Holly B. Sletten, DMD, for excellent dental care services in Parker, CO, including help with toothaches.
