Why Do Toothaches Hurt So Bad?
Toothaches can be incredibly painful and can make everyday activities difficult. While many of us have experienced the pain of a toothache at some point, few people understand why toothaches hurt so bad. In this article, we’ll explore why toothaches can be so painful and what can be done to reduce their intensity.
Tooth Sensitivity and Nerve Pain
The most common cause of a toothache is a cavity, or hole in the enamel of the tooth. When a cavity forms, it can expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth to the air and to hot or cold temperatures. This can cause sharp, shooting pains that can be quite intense.
In addition, the nerves in and around the tooth can become inflamed and cause a throbbing, aching pain that can be difficult to ignore. This is due to the fact that the area around the tooth is filled with blood vessels and nerves, which can become agitated or inflamed.
Infection
In some cases, a toothache can be caused by an infection, such as an abscess. An abscess is a pocket of infection that can form around the root of a tooth, and it can cause severe pain. In addition, an infection can spread to the surrounding tissue, which can cause swelling and more pain.
Treatment
Fortunately, most toothaches can be treated with a visit to the dentist. Your dentist can examine the tooth and determine the cause of the pain. Depending on the cause, they may be able to fill the cavity, perform a root canal, or prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. In some cases, they may also recommend that the tooth be removed.
In addition, OTC pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to reduce the intensity of the pain. Cold or hot compresses can also be used to reduce the inflammation and reduce the intensity of the pain.
Conclusion
Toothaches can be incredibly painful and can make everyday activities difficult. The most common causes of toothaches are cavities, nerve pain, and infections. Treatment for toothaches can range from filling the cavity to performing a root canal or, in some cases, removing the tooth. In addition, pain medications and cold or hot compresses can be used to reduce the intensity of the pain.