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, Dickinson dentist Dr. Agee Kunjumon at Touchstone Dentistry 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 Touchstone Dentistry 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 Touchstone Dentistry. Lots of pain doesn’t necessarily mean you need emergency dental care, but it’s not worth the risk. We at Touchstone Dentistry have seen it all and we know how to care for your smile. Touchstone Dentistry 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 Touchstone Dentistry.

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.