(By Dr. Joseph D. Lim and Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim)
A TOOTHACHE is more than just a minor inconvenience. It can be a sign of something far more serious.
In fact, a toothache – a persistent pain in or around a tooth – should never be taken for granted. It’s nature way telling you something’s wrong.
Like tooth decay. This is the most common cause of a toothache because cavities expose the teeth’s sensitive inner layers.
Another important cause is gum disease, itself caused by infections in the gums results in pain, swelling, and even tooth loss.
Cracked or damaged teeth, even a tiny fracture, can expose nerves and cause sharp pain that we know as toothache.
Sensitive teeth caused by worn enamel or receding gums can be painful when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
Abscesses and infections, caused by the concentration of bacteria inside the tooth or gum, can cause swelling and severe toothache.
All of the above may be ignored at the risk of serious consequences. When left untreated, a toothache does not really go away and may even become more severe. That’s because bacteria may spread deep into the tooth and the areas around it, causing infections that can lead to abscesses that, in turn, may become life-threatening.
Left untreated, a toothache may cause tooth loss as severe decay or gum disease can weaken teeth that they either fall out or require dental extraction. Sans treatment, a toothache may cause more complications that are more expensive to treat with complex dental procedures like root canals – instead of less expensive filling or cleaning.
There are far more inexpensive and simpler ways to avoid a toothache. Start with constantly brushing your teeth a day with fluoride toothpaste. With floss or interdental brushes, clean the spaces between teeth to get rid of plaque.
Cut down on sweets – either sugary foods or sodas and drinks. Without regular toothbrushing and oral care, they may cause tooth decay. Saliva protects teeth from bacteria, so stay hydrated and drink water regularly – especially during this hot dry weather that leaves our mouth dry.
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups. The rule is: do not delay when toothache strikes. Consult your dentist at the soonest possible time.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim, Ed. D., is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology; and Founding Chairman of the Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.
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Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI, graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of the Philippines, College of Dentistry, Manila, 2011; Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, De la Salle University, Manila, 2002; and Master of Science (MSc.) in Oral Implantology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, 2019. He is an Associate Professor; Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists; and Fellow, Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail limdentalcenter@gmail.com/PN
