Trauma or injury to the tooth is a common cause of pain, often presenting as a broken, cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged tooth. This type of toothache will generally feel worse when chewing because of the pressure from impacting opposite teeth during a bite. Hot and cold foods will also often trigger a sudden increase in discomfort, and the toothache will persist even after the stimulus (i.e. heat or cold) is gone. There may be visual evidence of damage to the tooth and effort should be taken to protect the tooth from impact or further damage until the family dentist is seen.
Signs of swelling, usually in the face or gums around the tooth, redness, a feeling of heat coming from the area, and/or a sense of increased pressure around the sore tooth can all indicate inflammation within the tooth, possibly stemming from infection or untreated cavities. These symptoms can also accompany trauma or injury and should be treated by a professional as soon as possible. Applying an ice pack, wrapped in a cloth, for 15 to 20 minutes at a time can help keep swelling down and cool the hot sensation around the tooth.
Not all toothaches are caused by cavities (dental caries), although this can be a cause of pain and can become worse if left untreated. Occasionally, a newly filled tooth can be sensitive if the filling is tooth high or if the filling is in contact with an adjacent tooth. This can increase in discomfort when chewing, especially whenever something firm impacts that particular tooth. Some toothaches do not initially present as toothaches, but instead as headaches that seem different than usual or as earaches or jaw pain, sometimes associated with movement of the jaw. For more information or to discuss current toothache symptoms, contact our caring dental team at 210-616-0858 today.
