How Does a Toothache Feel Like?

Toothache is a pain that is described as being either sharp, constant, or throbbing. This pain can get worse with eating or any other form of pressure on the tooth. Sometimes, the gums can hurt as well.

If you have a toothache, you could also have other associated symptoms such as a fever, headache, swelling in the mouth, or pus. 

Why Do I Have a Toothache?

At TWC Implant & Dental Center, we will thoroughly examine your oral cavity to find out the underlying cause of your toothache. There can be many reasons, including:

• Tooth decay
• Tooth abscess
• Damaged fillings
• Fracture of the tooth
• Wisdom tooth pain
• Infection of the gums (gingivitis)
• Habitual grinding of the teeth

How is a Toothache Evaluated?

A complete oral cavity and general examination will help find the cause of the pain. Our dentists will also take a complete history and may order relevant X-rays to make a diagnosis.

How is Toothache Treated?

Pain around the tooth is usually self-limiting and goes away on its own. However, if the pain remains after 2-3 days or grows in intensity, you will require treatment.

Treatment for tooth pain is based on what’s causing it. If it’s tooth decay, you will need a filling or an extraction. If you have an infection, you could require root canal treatment and appropriate antibiotics.

The pain of an infected wisdom tooth is treated with wisdom tooth extraction.

Can Toothaches Be Prevented?

Good oral hygiene, including a proper brushing technique, can help prevent toothaches.

Aggressive brushing can cause injury to the gum line. Similarly, if your oral hygiene is poor, then there is an increased risk of tooth decay.

Some people have a habit of grinding teeth which can cause tooth pain as well. Abstaining from this habit can prevent pain as well.

Most importantly, you should visit the dentist at least twice a year for a regular check-up and professional dental cleaning to keep tooth decay and infections at bay.