7 Dental Conditions That Can Cause Physical Pain

In 2016, The Global Burden of Disease Study estimated that about 3.58 billion people were affected by oral diseases. Dental caries in permanent teeth were the most widespread disease.

Oral diseases and disorders are known to limit one’s capacity for chewing, biting, speaking, and smiling. Sometimes it can go as far as affecting the psychosocial wellbeing of an individual.

There is an increase in the number of reported cases of people suffering from oral diseases. The rise in numbers is due to insufficient fluoride exposure, lack of standard oral care services, and the change in peoples’ lifestyles. In addition, the widespread use of sugars, alcohol, and tobacco products is also to blame.

The following are several dental diseases known to cause physical pain and mental torture.

1.Gum disease

Red, hot, and swollen gums characterize this disease. It occurs when bacterial invade the gums. If not treated, it can cause the gums to detach from your teeth, exposing the roots to plaque. This causes pain and teeth sensitivity and can also lead to bone loss.

2.Tooth decay

Tooth decay erodes your enamel due toplaque build-up. Plaque is a sticky substance that forms on your tooth’s enamel when bacteria break down the sugars present in food pieces that stick on to your teeth. It produces acids that weaken the enamel, thus encouraging the formation of dental cavities. The process might be painless at first, but as decay progresses, teeth sensitivity will develop.

3.Abscess

An abscess is a result of untreated pulpitis or cavities. It is induced by the buildup of harmful microorganisms inside the pulp cavity.It causes a lot of pain and severe swelling if it is not addressed.

4.Teeth sensitivity

If you are experiencing tooth pain whenever you take cold, hot, acidic, or sweet foodstuffs, then you might have a sensitive tooth. It occurs when the dentin on the root areas is exposed because of cavities, worn-out fillings, periodontal diseases,or receded gums. Dentin is tissue lying beneath the enamel and cementum. The cementum is a soft covering found in the root of a tooth. Dr. Judd Shenk of Shenk Dental Care warns against overzealous brushing as it can cause the abrasion of your tooth’s enamel, exposing the dentin.

5.Tooth pulp inflammation

Also known as pulpitis, pulp inflammation occurs when your tooth decay is so extensive such that it reaches deep into your tooth’s pulp. This leads to the irritation and inflammation of the tissue at the center of your tooth.Since the pulp is rich in nerves and blood vessels, the pain associated with the disease can be chronic. Aside from dental caries, tooth trauma and frequent invasive procedures can also cause pulpitis. Pulpitis can be either reversible or irreversible.

6.Cracked teeth

A tooth may fracture due to mouth trauma, such as receiving a blow to your face. Biting down hard objects such as ice can also cause teeth to crack. Below are signs and symptoms of a fractured tooth:

• Your tooth being sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks
• Sharp and sudden pain when chewing or biting.

When seeking out a treatment plan, the type of crack in your tooth will be identified first as they are of five different types.

7.Oral cancer

This disease is deadly and affects people in their millions. However, the chances of recovery are high if it is diagnosed and treated at an early stage. Statistics show that the most affected are people above 40 years of age. The use of tobacco and related products increases the risk of getting oral cancer. Going for regular dental check-ups and exams can help detect the disease early.

Prevention

There are various ways of preventing dental diseases and maintaining a standard oral care routine. Some of which include:

• Eating a balanced diet
• Reduce smoking
• Visit your dentist at least twice a year
• Brush your teeth with toothpaste that contains fluoride.

Conclusion

Oral diseases are a burden to most people. This why you should seek the services of a dentist and go to your dental hygienist for regular cleanings. At our clinic, we offer affordable dentures and other services, including teeth whitening, extraction, and dental fillings, among many more.