Toothache

David M. Jordan, DMD

It’s the middle of the night and you cannot sleep. The constant throbbing in your mouth will not let you get rest. You toss and turn, trying to sleep as the pain persists and your tooth aches. Toothache is the name given to pain around the teeth or jaw. Usually the pain is indicative of a dental problem. This “ache” is usually caused by a cavity, cracked tooth, exposed root, gum disease, or TMJ disorders. Sometimes toothaches can be symptoms of problems outside the mouth including angina, heart attacks, ear infections, and sinus problems. If you are suffering from a toothache, call (803) 771-7695 to make an appointment with David M. Jordan, DMD. If they feel that a non-dental issue might be causing the toothache, you will be immediately referred to a medical doctor.

Deep cavities are the most common causes of toothaches. These deep holes in the tooth pass through the tooth’s outer enamel layer into the dermal pulp. This pulp contains the nerve endings of the tooth, which is why you would feel pain when these nerves are exposed to heat, cold and air. These cavities can usually be fixed with a dental filling that will seal and protect the tooth. If left untreated, the tooth could become infected and pus could collect under the tooth causing a dental abscess to form. Abscesses can cause extreme pain and will persist until David M. Jordan, DMD can drain the pus and try to save the tooth. If left unattended, a dental abscess can burst. In some cases, the abscess will drain by itself, but you should still get a professional evaluation.

In cases where the tooth is not strong enough to support a filling, a dental onlay or crown will be used. The onlay will create a seal over the entire tooth, protecting the decay from spreading and easing the pain. Gum disease is the second most common cause of toothaches. Inflammation of the tissue causes bone loss that surrounds and holds the teeth in place. The gums pull away from the teeth and bone allowing pockets to form. Bacteria can enter these pockets and become infected. The pain from these infections can be a toothache.

The nerves are sensitive and if exposed to heat, cold or moisture it will cause pain. If you have a toothache, avoid hot and cold food and drink until you can see your dentist. Call David M. Jordan, DMD at (803) 771-7695 if you are in Columbia, SC and have persistent symptoms.

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