When a Toothache is Not a Toothache
Most of us have experienced a toothache. At their mildest, toothaches may cause just enough discomfort to get on your nerves and disrupt your concentration, but at their worst, they can be debilitating. Because the pain feels like it’s coming from your tooth, it’s natural to assume that all toothaches are caused by cavities, gum disease or some other tooth-related problem. However, Highlands Ranch dentists Dr. Twiss would like you to know that not all toothaches are related to your teeth.
Wait, what? Toothaches that have nothing to do with teeth? Yes– as anyone at Twiss Dental will tell you –it is possible and it does happen. That being said, most toothaches are tooth-related.
How can a toothache not come from your tooth?
Your mouth is a complex organ that contains a number of different types of tissue, nerves, and microorganisms. While run-of-the-mill dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease are responsible for the majority of toothaches, there are many other conditions that can cause localized pain in one or more teeth –and some of them have nothing to do with your teeth. Here are a few examples:
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ or TMD)
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Maxillary sinusitis
- Shingles
- Oral herpes
What’s the most important thing to remember? If you experience moderate to severe pain in your mouth, it’s time to visit Dr. Twiss. Lots of pain doesn’t necessarily mean you need emergency dental care, but it’s not worth the risk. We at Twiss Dental have seen it all and we know how to care for your smile. Dr. Twiss will examine your mouth and help determine the source of the problem, whether or not it’s actually your teeth!
If you are suffering from a toothache and have questions or would like to make an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us.
The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
About Tyler Twiss, DMD, MBA
Dr. Twiss grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He is married with four children and loves being involved with them as they grow up. Dr. Twiss has spent extensive time in advancing his dental education. He received his Fellowship with the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, spending over 150 hours in training with world-renowned implant pioneer Dr. Carl Misch. In addition to dental implants, Dr. Twiss has extensive training in orthodontics, Invisalign®, laser gum surgery, and CEREC® one-visit porcelain crown technology.