Toothache Specialist

Can cavities cause tooth pain?

Yes, the development of cavities is one of the most common reasons for a toothache to begin. Cavities are the result of tooth decay from a buildup of bacterial plaque on your teeth. When the decay reaches the nerves inside your teeth they can cause pain. You might also feel sensitivity or pain in the affected tooth when eating, or drinking hot and cold foods. Other causes of toothaches include infections, trauma, fractures, sinus infections and food lodged in the gums.

Aside from cavities, what else causes toothaches?

In most instances, a toothache occurs due to injury or inflammation of your tooth roots and gum tissue. However, other physical ailments can also cause tooth pain. Some of the most common causes of toothaches include:

• Jaw injuries

• Sinus infections

• Teeth grinding

• Losing a filling

• Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ)

You might also experience a toothache if you get a piece of food or other foreign object lodged between two or more teeth.

When should I visit a dentist regarding a toothache?

If you experience a toothache, pay attention to your symptoms for at least 24 hours. If your toothache is the result of minor inflammation or stress, it may subside with conservative methods of care such as rest, ice therapy, and taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). However, if your pain persists or your toothache lasts for longer than 48 hours, it may point to a more serious problem that requires professional medical attention.

You should also make an appointment with Dr. Yakobashvili, Dr. Datikashvili, and the team at Glad Dental P.C. if you’re having trouble breathing or swallowing, or you experience mouth pain whenever you speak, yawn, or chew.

Can you have a fever with a toothache?

Yes, a fever can be present with a toothache. This may occur if you have an infection in your tooth or gums, or if you have a sinus infection. You may also have redness and swelling with an infection. An infection requires immediate treatment to prevent it from spreading or getting worse. If a fever is present with tooth pain, call Dr. Guram Yakobashvili at Glad Dental P.C. for treatment.

Can a toothache give you a headache?

Toothaches often cause headaches for several reasons. If you clench your jaw in response to tooth pain, that could cause a headache. There might also be headache pain alongside a toothache if the trigeminal nerve that runs through your jaw and head is affected. Sinus infections that occur with toothaches are also a direct cause of head pain, especially behind your eyes.

What should I do about toothaches?

Toothaches should be treated by a dental professional to ensure they don’t progress to anything worse. Most jaw problems, such as TMJ, can also cause tooth pain. In this case, you would visit an orthodontist. Take steps to ease your pain at home by rinsing with warm water and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. Visit Dr. Yakobashvili at Glad Dental P.C. to determine the cause of toothaches and get proper treatment.

What is TMJ?

Your temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located on either side of your face and connect your jawbone to your skull. Each joint acts as a sliding hinge, helping you chew, speak, laugh, and yawn. Unfortunately, these joints are also susceptible to injury. Experts aren’t sure why, but it’s thought that stress, genetics, and teeth grinding play a role.

What are the symptoms of TMJ?

The symptoms of TMJ vary from patient to patient, but common telltale signs include: 

• Jaw pain

• Facial pain

• Jaw tenderness

• Difficulty chewing

• Ear pain

If you have TMJ, you might also notice that your jaw locks up or makes clicking or popping sounds whenever you yawn or speak. 

Dr. Yakobashvili and Dr. Datikashvili don’t treat TMJ orders directly, but they can refer you to a local orthodontist who specializes in treatment for this type of toothache.

How can I treat my toothache?

The treatment for your toothache depends on the source and severity of your discomfort. If your toothache is the result of a minor cavity, your dentist might recommend a dental filling. On the other hand, moderate or severe decay might require root canal treatment, dental bonding, or a dental crown. 

If you have a cracked or damaged tooth, your dentist might recommend an extraction to prevent an infection. Afterward, they might place a dental bridge or dental implant, to restore your smile to its near-original condition.

For tooth pain caused by temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, your dentist can refer you to an orthodontist who can make a night guard. A night guard is a special mouthguard that aligns your jaws and prevents teeth grinding while you sleep.

If a sinus infection is causing your toothache, your dentist can refer you to a medical doctor who can prescribe antibiotics.  

Don’t let a toothache or facial pain prevent you from living your best life. To pinpoint the source of your discomfort make an appointment with Dr. Yakobashvili, Dr. Datikashvili, and the team at Glad Dental P.C. Call the office or click the online booking tool today.