Toothache Questions and Answers (FAQ)

1. What are the main characteristics of toothache pain?

Toothache pain is very uncomfortable & can vary, depending on why it occurs. It can be described as throbbing, intermittent or continuous. The pain worsens when eating or drinking hot or cold food and beverages, & intensifies when lying down.

2. What is dental plaque?

Dental plaque is the main cause of toothache. It consists mostly of bacteria (70%) and forms a thin layer on the surface of teeth and gums. Plaque attracts sugars from food & beverages, which gradually transform into acids. The acids are responsible for producing tooth caries, commonly known as tooth decay. Plaque can also cause inflammation of the gums & tooth pulp, & ultimately lead to tooth loss. The main cause of plaque formation is poor oral hygiene.

3. What is caries?

Caries is the most popular cause of toothache. It is the decay of tooth enamel caused by the acidic action of plaque. Dental plaque is composed of bacteria, saliva, food debris and other substances. The bacteria metabolize the sugars, transforming them into corrosive acids. The acids corrode the tooth enamel, & lead to decay.

4. What type of pain does caries cause?

The type & intensity of the pain depends on how deep the caries is. During the initial phase, the pain is acute but brief. It is usually associated with a specific event, like eating something hot or cold. The deeper the decay, the more intense the pain - it can be dull or throbbing. When the caries reaches the dental pulp, the pain becomes continuous & severe.

5. What is pulpitis?

Pulpitis is an inflammation of the dental pulp & is caused by a bacterial infection. The infection is usually a secondary development to tooth decay. If the decay is very deep, it can irritate the pulp and allow bacteria to enter. The harmful bacterial action can increase pressure in the surrounding tissues. The rise in tissue pressure is what causes the pain.

6. What type of pain does pulpitis cause?

The intensity and level of the pain can vary, depending on the severity of the inflammation. Usually, the pain is acute and throbbing. As the inflammation spreads, the pain becomes more intense & can be continuous or intermittent. The pain is made worse by heat and external stimuli & is usually relieved by cold applications.

7. What is a dental abscess?

Dental abscess is an inflammation caused by the formation of pus. Pus is a substance composed of bacteria, dead cells & other microorganisms. There are 2 main types of oral cavity abscesses.
Dental abscess is an inflammation of the tooth pulp. It mostly results from a caries, or tooth decay. Pus forms at the tip of the tooth root.
Gingival abscess is an inflammation of the gums, resulting from typical gum diseases such as periodontitis. Pus forms in the gum crevices caused by periodontitis.

8. What type of pain does dental abscess cause?

Pain from dental abscess is usually quite severe. It is throbbing & continuous, & intensifies when chewing or lying down.

9. How can toothache be prevented?

Tooth decay, pulpitis and abscesses should be treated by a dentist. In the meantime, the pain can be relieved in various ways. One remedy is the use of cold applications. An ice pack placed on the painful areas will anesthetize the nerve endings. Keeping your head raised reduces the pain, but lying down makes it worse because it raises blood pressure in the head. If the pain is very strong, nonprescription pain relievers can be taken, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). If infection is present, a regimen of antibiotics should be taken, as prescribed by a physician.

10. How can plaque formation & toothache be prevented?

The best prevention against toothache is to practice regular oral hygiene. Teeth should be brushed at least 3 times a day and brushed individually -- including the within surfaces. Brush your tongue, as well. Do not brush too energetically, otherwise you will damage the tooth enamel. Dental floss should also be used regularly & made part of an oral hygiene regimen.

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