(By Dr. Joseph D. Lim and Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI)
WHAT may be a “simple” toothache could be an indication of something more serious.
Don’t be alarmed. All we are saying is that a toothache – or any painful oral condition, for that matter – should NOT be taken for granted.
Of course, the toothache could simply be due to over sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, a common condition among senior citizens.
Or it could be a symptom that needs dental attention.
For example, if it becomes painful when you chew, it may signal the fact that the tooth may be damaged. Too much clenching of the jaw or grinding the teeth while sleeping may cause the damage and expose nerves. The exposed nerves could be the cause of the pain.
Now, don’t just take a pain reliever because when untreated the damage tooth may result in a bacterial infection.
When the tooth enamel is worn down, it may also be painful to chew. That’s because the tooth enamel prevents sensitivity to hot or cold water or food.
Because the enamel cannot be replaced once it is gone, consult your dentist as soon as possible. The dentist may recommend, among many other things, that you change your diet and avoid acidic food and drinks that tend to wear down the enamel.
Pain in a tooth that comes up even while you are not eating may also indicate bacterial infection.
This happens after bacteria enters the pulp or the inner part of the tooth. That is an important part of the tooth because we don’t want the place where connective tissues, nerves and blood vessels are located to be infected.
Remember that it is possible for an infection in the tooth to spread to other parts of your body.
Consult your dentist who may recommend antibiotics to fight the infection.
Tooth infection may be caused by a diet high in sugar, poor oral health, poor oral hygiene – and dry mouth.
Now dry mouth encourages the growth of bacteria and worsens oral issues. That’s because saliva gives protection from bacterial infection.
Dry mouth makes it also difficult to talk and spit.
Medication may cause dry mouth, but medicines cannot be avoided when necessary for your wellbeing.
There are other ways to prevent dry mouth. You should avoid alcohol drinks, coffee and cigarettes in order not to worsen the conditions that lead to dry mouth.
Drinking water prevents the mouth from drying – obviously. Brushing your teeth after each meal or at least twice a day also helps.
And visit your dentist if and when symptoms persist.
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(Dr. Joseph D. Lim is the former Associate Dean of the UE College of Dentistry, former Dean of the College of Dentistry, National University, past president and honorary fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy, and honorary fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists and Honorary Life Member of Thai Association of Dental Implantology. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.)/PN
