Every single person has, at some time in their life, experienced toothache, which can range from an annoying dull ache to a full-on raging pain and everything in between. There are many reasons why toothache might come knocking on your door and, of course, it is a sign that something isn’t right.
Here are the most common causes of toothache.
- Tooth Decay – Usually the result of poor oral hygiene, when a coating of plaque forms on the teeth and gums that feed the bacteria in the mouth, which then create sugars that attack the tooth enamel. A small cavity quickly grows and by visiting the dentist in Mudgeeraba or in your local area, the cavity can be cleaned out and filled with a composite material. Tooth decay is common in children, especially those who have a high sugar diet and without treatment, the problem gets worse.
- Gum Disease – Periodontitis is the medical term for gum disease, which causes a dull ache at the root of the tooth and can expose nerves. It causes an unpleasant surge of pain when consuming hot or cold items. The primary cause is poor oral hygiene, which enables plaque to turn into tartar (the hard material that forms on the gumline), which cannot be removed without special tools.
- Tooth Abscess – This can be very painful when pressure is applied and like all infections, it will spread and putting off treatment is simply not an option. An abscess can be caused by gum disease, a cracked tooth or a deep cavity – another reason to schedule oral examinations every few months – and prompt treatment is advised.
- Damaged Filling – If a portion of a filling comes out, over time this will result in an infection. If you lose a section of a filling, make an appointment with your local dentist who will remove the rest of the filling material, clean up the cavity and refill it with a white composite material.
The Importance of Best Oral Hygiene Practices
Almost all dental issues arise because of poor oral hygiene, which is why you should brush and floss after every meal and before and after bed. This means having a travel toothbrush set and after a while, brushing after eating will become second nature. You should also use antiseptic mouthwash after drinking coffee, tea or any form of alcohol. Swishing the liquid around your mouth vigorously, creating pressure to force the solution between your teeth for 5-10 minutes is the best way to use mouthwash. If you are unsure about the correct brushing technique, check out the many YouTube videos that clearly show how to brush effectively.
Preventative Measures
If you take a proactive approach to oral care, making regular appointments for check-ups at your local dental clinic will ensure that any issues are promptly treated. At least every 6 months is recommended by the dental profession, while many people book every 3 months, which is ideal. If you adopt best oral hygiene practices combined with regular check-ups, your teeth and gums will always be strong and healthy.
