About Toothaches

Generally manifesting as a dull throbbing pain in your mouth, a toothache can be a terribly painful and annoying ordeal that might seem like it's going to last forever. Learn what causes a toothache and how can they be treated, as well as get some prevention tips.

History

Over the course of history, real and lasting treatments for toothaches, especially the more serious kinds of aches, have been few and far between. It has only been in the last century--and especially the last few decades, really--that doctors and dentists have developed methods and introduced technology that effectively battles the painful symptoms and root causes of toothaches. But even today, not all of the problems behind toothaches can be solves by medicine.

Types

Toothaches come in several types. First, the pain can be either dull and irritating or torturously painful and excruciating. In addition to the difference in pain levels, toothaches can also be divided into two other camps: chronic (regularly recurring) or non-chronic (happening just this once).

Identification

To identify the root cause behind a particular toothache, the answer can usually only be found by visiting a doctor or dentist and being examined by a medical professional. The truth is, there are dozens of potential causes for a toothache. The possible culprits include a simple tooth cavity, pulpitis, new wisdom teeth, tooth rot, gum disease or a cracked tooth. Even a change in barometric pressure can cause some individuals to experience a severe toothache.

Considerations

With so many potential causes of a toothache, it is worthwhile considering what might prevent such conditions in the first place. Avoiding too much in the way of sugary sweets will help, not smoking or chewing tobacco (or even drinking coffee) wouldn't hurt, and keeping your heart healthy by exercising regularly and eating well is a good idea (some heart diseases can "refer" the pain to your teeth). Don't forget to brush your teeth correctly twice a day.

Warning

While some toothaches simply throb annoyingly but can be tolerated without too much effort, others can hurt like nothing you've ever imagined. If you or someone you know experiences a sharp and excruciating pain associated with a tooth or teeth, get to a doctor immediately as this is usually the only way to make the pain stop.