If you’ve ever had toothache before, you’ll know that it can make life a misery. Toothache can be mild or severe and it may be persistent or come on all of a sudden without any warning. If you have toothache, it’s really important to see your dentist.

What causes toothache?

Toothache can be caused by various dental problems, including decay and infection. Tooth decay causes the enamel surface to become weaker and holes to form. These holes are known as cavities. When you have a cavity, there’s a risk that bacteria can travel to other parts of the tooth, and this is why dentists usually recommend filling the tooth. If you have a cavity, you may find that the tooth feels weaker than usual and pain intensifies when you use that tooth.

Toothache can also arise as a result of infection. If the tooth is infected, there is a chance that an abscess will form. Abscesses are sores, which are filled with fluid. They tend to be very painful and they often cause throbbing pain. You may also have a temperature and feel unwell if you have an abscess. If you think you may have a dental abscess, it’s essential to call your dentist, as dental abscesses are not treated in the same way as abscesses in other parts of the body. Rather than treating the abscess with antibiotics, the abscess will be drained and removed.

What to do if you have toothache

Sometimes, toothache can come and go without causing you too many troubles, but it’s always a good idea to see your dentist, especially if you’re getting recurrent pain or the pain has become more intense. If there is an underlying issue, your dentist will be able to recommend treatments to relieve pain and put a smile back on your face. If you need urgent attention, give us a call and we’ll do everything we can to get you fighting fit again as quickly as possible.