Toothache

Toothache refers to pain or discomfort around dentition or jaws usually as a result of a dental condition.

Common toothaches are caused mostly by tooth problems, such cavities, cracks, root exposure, gum disease, impaction and eruption.

Also, disorders of the jaw joint / TMJ (temporo-mandibular joint) can also cause pain that is referred to as “toothache.”

The intensity of the pain/toothache can be chronic, mild, sharp and excruciating. The pain may be unbearable by chewing or by cold or heat.

A thorough dental examination, including dental X-rays, can help diagnose whether the toothache is coming from a tooth or jaw problem and the cause of pain.

Sometimes, pain around the teeth and the jaws can be symptoms of diseases of the heart, ears and sinuses . Evaluations by both dentists and physicians are sometimes necessary to diagnose medical illnesses causing “toothache.”