Toothache


Understanding a Toothache

Toothaches can be the result of many factors. The pain of a toothache usually presents itself with the following symptoms:

  • a throbbing sensation which can either be intermittent or continuous.
  • usually intensifies while eating, chewing or drinking cold and/or hot liquids.
  • can intensify while lying down, etc.

The dental origin of toothaches can include:

  • cavities
  • abscess, which is an infection around the tooth or gum
  • debris trapped between the teeth and/or gums
  • trauma to the face and/or teeth

Sometimes, a toothache can result from a medical condition and not have a
dental origin. If left unchecked, a more serious and even life threatening
condition may result.

Examples of conditions that may cause a toothache and not have a dental
origin include:

  • Angina - which is a specific type of pain in the chest caused by an inadequate blood flow through the coronary vessels of the heart muscle. If left untreated, a heart attack may result, which can be fatal. Pain in the teeth and/ or jaw may occur. Other symptoms can be shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, etc.
  • Temporomandibular Dysfunction - pain arises in the joint of the jaw (located in front of the ear) which can radiate to the teeth and jaws.
  • Sinusitis - a sinus inflammation or infection may mimic a toothache. This can be particularly bothersome during periods of the year where environmental allergies are prevalant.
  • Earaches
  • Trigeminal Neuralgia - also known as tic douloureux, a painful inflammation of the trigeminal nerve which causes severe facial pain and severe spasms in the muscles of the face can also make one feel that they have a toothache.
  • Cancers - both oral cancers and non-oral cancers can manifest in the jawbone and mimic dental pain.

Patients should always consult with their dentists to make sure the toothache is of dental origin. Regular dental and medical checkups are the best line of defense in the prevention of dental and medical disease.

Note: Any pain in a tooth or gums, whether a dull throbbing or
sharp ache should be brought to your dentist’s attention.