Oral Health 101: 3 Reasons You Might Be Having A Toothache That Aren’t Related To Cavities

If you are like most people, you have probably suffered from the pain of a toothache. While toothaches are most commonly caused by cavities and infections, those aren't the only reasons for experiencing pain in your mouth. In fact, there are many possible reasons that you're feeling the pain of a toothache. So what other reasons could be to blame? Here are three common ones:

1. Sensitivity

If you experience pain when eating or drinking something that is hot or cold in temperature, you have tooth sensitivity. While sensitivity can be caused by a wide range of things, it is most commonly the result of a receding gums. It might also be caused by thin tooth enamel. In either case, sensitivity can leave you with a bit of a toothache—especially after ingesting something that bothers your teeth.

If sensitivity is causing your pain, try to refrain from eating or drinking anything that is very hot or cold. Additionally, try to avoid acidic foods. You might also want to switch to a sensitivity toothpaste, which can help relieve some of the symptoms in the long term.

2. Gum Disease

Another reason you might be experiencing a toothache is from gum disease. This might sound a little odd, especially because the problem isn't in your teeth but in your gums. However, when gum disease is present your gums may flare up. This inflammation affects the bone tissue in your jaw, as well as your teeth. So naturally, your teeth may appear to hurt.

If you have gum disease, the best course of action is to practice good oral hygiene. Additionally, be sure to visit your dentist on a regular basis.

3. Tooth Grinding

You might also experience a toothache if you grind your teeth. Whether awake or asleep, tooth grinding is very harmful to your teeth. The pressure on your jaw alone can cause a significant amount of pain. Too much pressure can also cause your teeth to crack, which can also cause pain.

If you know that you grind your teeth, let your dentist know. The dentist can help relieve the pressure by fitting you with a mouth guard. Additionally, a dentist can help repair any damage that is already present. Combined, this will help reduce the amount of pain you experience.

While cavities and infections are the two most common reasons for tooth pain, they aren't the only ones. These three reasons are another reason you might be experiencing the dreaded toothache. If you are in pain, make sure you visit your dentist to ensure your mouth is healthy. You can find a dental clinic by visiting a site like http://suncoastdental.com.


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