Uncovering The Cause Of Tooth Pain

Tooth pain, or a toothache, can be chronic and dull or acute and excruciating. In fact, tooth pain can be so debilitating that it requires a visit to an emergency dentist. Toothaches can be caused by various conditions, some of which are related to medical causes as opposed to dental causes. Here are some ways your dentist can undercover the cause of your toothache so that an appropriate treatment plan can be developed and implemented. 

Dental And Medical Histories

Your dentist will take a medical and dental history from you to help identify the cause of your tooth pain. They may ask you about your oral hygiene routine, your dietary habits, your preexisting health conditions, and if you grind your teeth. Poor oral hygiene habits can lead to dental decay and periodontal disease, which can cause severe tooth pain. If you eat and drink things that are acidic such as coffee, tea, or citrus juice and fruits, your toothache may be the result of acid erosion.

Acidic food items can erode, thin, and damage your dental enamel. This can cause discomfort and sensitivity. Preexisting health conditions such as degenerative bone disease can lead to tooth and jaw pain, and grinding your teeth can cause severe dental pain.

Diagnostic X-rays And Oral Examination

Your dentist will take X-rays, either traditional bitewing X-rays or panoramic X-rays, which capture images of larger areas of the oral cavity. These diagnostic imaging tests can reveal the presence of wisdom teeth impactions and dental abscesses, both of which can cause severe tooth pain. X-rays can also reveal an abnormal bite and dental crowding, which in addition to severe tooth pain, can also cause neck and jaw pain, as well as headaches, speech problems, and difficulty chewing.

After your X-rays have been taken, your dentist will perform an oral examination. They will examine your oral cavity for receding gums, enamel erosion, broken teeth, periodontal pockets, and cavities. If your X-rays and your oral examination are normal, then your dentist may refer you to a dental specialist or your primary care physician for further evaluation.

If you develop tooth pain, schedule an appointment with your dentist. However, if your pain is severe or debilitating, see an emergency dentist or seek emergency medical care at the nearest hospital. Once the source of your pain has been identified, a treatment plan can be created and implemented so that you can resume your normal routine more comfortably.

Contact your dentist for more information about tooth pain.