If you have a toothache, you might immediately assume a cavity is causing you problems. Perhaps you might think your dental pain is a result of gum issues or a recent teeth-whitening treatment. But maybe it isn’t any of these common oral health issues at all! Here are some shocking reasons why you could be suffering from a toothache.
1. Stress
Stress can be quite harmful to your overall health—and your oral health is no exception. If you’re particularly stressed, you may be grinding your teeth as a result. This often occurs in your sleep, and can lead to fractured teeth, headaches, and jaw pain. Therefore, if you’ve been experiencing tooth pain lately during a particularly stressful period, bruxism could be the culprit. Make sure you bring this to the attention of your dentist.
2. Sinus Infection
As if being sick with a sinus infection wasn’t bad enough, it can lead to dental pain as well! When you have a sinus infection, your sinuses located behind the cheekbones can swell and cause pressure and inflammation. This can place pressure on the roots of your teeth, causing pain. This pain should go away as your other symptoms resolve. However, if the pain continues, you should visit your dentist.
3. Acid Reflux
Acid reflux can actually cause a number of oral health issues—including halitosis and tooth decay. If you have really bad acid reflux, the acids can gradually corrode your dental enamel. Over time, this corrosion can expose the dentin layer of your teeth, which is comprised of microscopic tubules that provide access to the pulp within your tooth. Ultimately, this can make your teeth quite sensitive, and should be addressed by a dentist.
4. Over-brushing
Brushing your teeth is critical for maintaining your oral health. However, in some cases, there can be too much of a good thing. If you brush too rigorously or far too often, you can wear away your dental enamel or even cause gum recession. Both of these oral health issues can cause toothaches. Therefore, make sure you don’t brush too hard, and keep your brushing to mornings, evenings, and after mealtimes.
5. Atmospheric Changes
Travelers may be surprised to know that they could be particularly at risk for toothaches. This is because certain changes in atmospheric pressure— such as when you are riding in an airplane, hiking in the mountains, or scuba diving— can cause dental pain. While scientists aren’t exactly certain why this occurs, the toothache should subside when you get back to your normal environment.
If your toothache persists, regardless of the cause, it is important to have a dentist take a look at it. To schedule your next appointment, call Fairview Dental Group in Westmont today!