Reasons For An Achy Tooth

An achy tooth can be painful and distracting, robbing you of your ability to enjoy your days and nights. Thus, if you are suffering from a toothache, you are probably seeking ways to eliminate it as quickly as possible. 

Still, it can be difficult to stop a toothache without understanding what is causing it. Here are a few common reasons for an achy tooth.

Dental Sensitivity

A tooth may begin to ache due to an increase in dental sensitivity. The sensitivity may cause the tooth to be more susceptible to pain when it is exposed to cold, heat, or pressure. 

Dental sensitivity may increase as the tooth enamel is worn away and the underlying dentin layer is exposed. The dentin includes tubules, or small tunnel-like holes, that encase the dental nerves. As the nerves become more exposed to environmental elements, dental sensitivity is facilitated.

Dental bonding material or a dental crown may be required to cover a tooth that has incurred enamel damage. The covering ensures that a barrier remains between the dentin layer and the environment of the mouth.

Also, the sensitivity of a tooth may increase from the overuse of teeth-whitening products. When used as directed, dental bleaches are often harmless. However, when abused, chemical whiteners can cause chronic dental sensitivity that may only be corrected through a root canal procedure. 

Dental Decay

Dental decay takes place as the enamel of a tooth is dissolved by oral acids. The demineralization of the tooth enamel leads to the formation of cavities. 

Once a cavity develops, the hole can expose the interior layers of the tooth. The innermost layer of a tooth is the dental pulp, which is the soft living material in which the tooth's blood vessels and dental nerves are found. 

When the pulp is no longer properly covered, it may become inflamed and infected, leading to irreparable damage to the dental nerves. The resulting pain in the tooth can be eliminated by extracting the tooth or treating it with a root canal procedure. 

If a cavity is not severe but is causing you discomfort, the dentist may be able to eliminate your toothache by simply removing the decayed portion of the tooth and installing a filling. A larger cavity may also necessitate the placement of a dental crown to fortify and protect the tooth.

If you are suffering from a toothache, schedule a consultation with a dental clinic like Scott W. Murphy Dentistry in your local area.


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