Pain around a teeth or jaws is often referred to as a “toothache”. In most instances’ toothaches are caused by dental problems such as a cavity, a cracked/fractured tooth, an exposed tooth root/nerve, or gum disease. Diseases of the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint), or spasms of the muscles used in chewing can also cause toothache symptoms.
Severity of a toothache ranges from chronic and mild to sharp and excruciating. Pain may be exaggerated by chewing or by thermal (hot/cold) foods or liquids. A thorough oral examination for proper tooth testing and evaluation along with appropriate x-rays or scans can help determine whether the toothache is stemming from a tooth or someplace else.
Dislodged Teeth
Injuries to the mouth can cause teeth to be pushed back into their sockets. If the tooth is pushed partially out of the socket, your dentist may re-position and stabilize your tooth. If the pulp remains healthy, then no other treatment is necessary.
Avulsed Teeth
If an injury causes a tooth to be completely knocked out of your mouth, it is important that you seek treatment immediately! It is important to keep the avulsed tooth moist. If possible, put it back into the socket. A tooth can be saved if it remains moist. You can even put the tooth in milk or a glass of water (add a pinch of salt). The length of time the tooth was out of your mouth and the way the tooth was stored may influence the type of treatment you receive and how successful the outcome.