TOOTHACHE can be extraordinarily painful, as anyone who has experienced it knows, but most of the causes of toothache are preventable, according to Cimas Health Group dentist Dr Daphia Musuna.
The commonest cause of toothache is tooth decay, she pointed out, which can be avoided through good oral hygiene, a healthy diet and regular dental check-ups.
Last Sunday was commemorated in many countries as Toothache Day, which falls on February 9 every year. It is a day intended to remind people to practise good oral hygiene, schedule dental check-ups and take steps to prevent toothaches.
“In our clinics, we tend to see a lot of tooth decay, which is the most common cause of toothache. The good news is that tooth decay can be treated, and the tooth saved if discovered early. However, the best approach is always prevention,” Musuna said.
Gum disease, which results in damage to the gums and other tooth supporting structures, can also lead to toothache, she pointed out.
Other possible causes of toothache are injury to teeth in an accident or during contact sports, impacted teeth and oral cancer.
“Impacted teeth is commonest in wisdom teeth. They are teeth that fail to erupt properly, which predisposes you to inflammation and infections that present as toothache,” Musuna said.
Prevention
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Preventing gum disease and tooth decay relies on three factors, she said. These are good oral hygiene, a healthy diet and regular dental check-ups.
She encouraged the use of a gum guard when engaging in contact sports, to minimise the chances of injuring teeth and gums.
Oral hygiene
Musuna said at least two minutes should be spent twice a day brushing teeth to ensure all tooth surfaces are cleaned.
A soft bristled toothbrush should be used to protect gums and enamel while cleaning teeth effectively. Small, gentle circular motions should be used to brush teeth. Harsh back-and-forth strokes should be avoided as they could hurt the gums.
“Focus on problem areas. Pay attention to spots that can collect plaque, such as the back molars and along the gumline. Don’t forget to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth to remove bacteria that cause bad breath,” Musuna said.
“Always floss at least once a day after brushing to remove food and plaque between your teeth.”
Using toothpaste that contains fluoride helps strengthen teeth and prevent cavities, she added.
Healthy diet
“What we eat can significantly impact our oral health and the likelihood of toothache. To prevent toothaches and maintain oral health be mindful of what you eat,” Musuna said.
Sugary foods and drinks, including candy, cookies and soda, should be avoided as they could lead to plaque build-up.
Excessive consumption of acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and juices, could wear down tooth enamel.
Starchy foods such as bread and chips could turn into sugars that cause plaque. Processed meats and fried foods could have a negative impact on teeth as well as on overall health.
Recommended foods to eat included crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots, which help clean teeth and boost saliva.
Dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese provided calcium and reduced mouth acidity. Leafy greens such as spinach and kale were low in sugar and good for gums.
Almonds and walnuts are healthy snacks that provide good fats. Brown rice and whole-grain bread should be preferred to over-processed options.
Drinking water helped wash away food particles and prevent cavities.
“Making these food choices can lower your risk of toothaches and keep your smile healthy,” Musuna said.
Gum disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bone supporting teeth.
If untreated, it can result in tooth loss, bad breath, gum recession that exposes the roots of teeth and increased sensitivity.
“Gum disease has also been shown to worsen other medical conditions,” Musuna said. “Poor oral hygiene can contribute to various systemic diseases and these diseases can in turn affect oral health.
“Illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections and pregnancy complications are more likely to occur in individuals with gum disease.
“Conversely gum disease and poor oral hygiene can worsen systemic health conditions,” she said. Early warning signs of gum disease include, she said, bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, bad breath, and loose teeth.
As the symptoms progress, individuals may experience pain or discomfort while chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, gum recession and the formation of deep pockets or spacing between teeth.
In advanced cases, the infection can lead to severe pain, abscesses, tooth loss and changes in tooth position.
The risk of gum disease can be reduced, Musuna said, through maintaining good oral hygiene, visiting a dentist at least twice a year for routine examinations and cleaning, quitting smoking and other uses of tobacco, and reducing stress.
“Regular check-ups allow for early detection of any signs of gum disease and enable prompt treatment, if necessary,” she pointed out.
Musuna said professional cleaning, also known as scaling and root planning, are essential for removing tartar and plaque from below the gum line.
“This deep cleaning procedure helps restore gum health and prevent further complications,” she said.
Oral cancer
Musuna said the incidence of oral cancer, which is now a global concern, has been increasing.
“The rising concern is due to the increase in tobacco and alcohol consumption, viral infections and lack or early detection and screening,” she said.
Musuna said oral cancers tended to cause minimal or no symptoms until they were at an advanced stage.
Key signs to be aware of include:
Ongoing soreness in the mouth, throat or lips that does not go away;
Open sores in the mouth that do not heal within two to three weeks; unusual red or white patches on the gums, tongue or mouth lining;
Bleeding in the mouth without a clear cause; difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food being stuck in the throat;
Unexpected lumps or swelling in the neck, jaw or mouth.
“If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional promptly. Early detection can lead to more effective treatment,” she said.
- The information in this article is provided as a public service by the Cimas iGo Wellness programme, which is designed to promote good health. It is provided for general information only and should not be construed as medical advice. Readers should consult their doctor or clinic on any matter related to their health or the treatment of any health problem. — [email protected] or WhatsApp 0772 161 829 or phone 024-2773 0663.
