What Causes Toothache That Comes and Goes?

Toothache can be a real bother, especially when it seems to come and go without warning. This pain can leave you scratching your head, wondering what’s causing the intermittent discomfort. One such example is a cracked tooth which is a common dental problem that can quickly turn into a dental emergency if not treated promptly. Let’s dive into knowing all the possible reasons behind this puzzling issue and what you can do about it.

Unravelling the Mystery of Intermittent Toothache

Intermittent toothache is a confusing issue that may trouble many individuals. This type of tooth pain can vanish as quickly as it appears, leaving some confused and, at times, relieved that they do not feel pain anymore. However, the momentary nature of the pain does not mean we should ignore the underlying issue.

This occasional occurrence of toothache can be related to various factors, including minor gum irritation, temporary nerve sensitivity, or the initial stages of dental decay.

It is crucial to monitor the patterns of an intermittent toothache, such as its frequency, duration, and triggers. This information can provide valuable insights into the possible causes and assist in preventing the pain from developing into a constant and more severe condition.

Why Does My Tooth Pain Come and Go?

Grasping the root causes is essential for effective relief and prevention. Fluctuating tooth pain can suggest various dental issues, ranging from mild sensitivities to severe conditions that require immediate attention. 

Several dental conditions may result in toothache that comes and goes. The following are few common causes of tooth pain and their associated pain.

Toothache can be an extremely uncomfortable experience that may come and go unpredictably. A primary cause of intermittent tooth pain is tooth decay, which exposes sensitive nerves within the dental pulp, responding to triggers like sugary foods or cold temperatures. Alternatively, gum disease and periodontal disease can lead to episodic discomfort due to inflammation affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. 

What are the Lifestyle Factors Affecting Dental Health? 

Lifestyle factors such as oral hygiene habits, smoking and alcohol consumption can significantly impact dental health and pain levels. Poor oral hygiene can lead to build-up of plaque and gum disease associated with toothache. Tobacco and alcohol consumption, both of which can cause dry mouth and reduced saliva production, may increase the risk of tooth decay and result in intermittent pain.

Diet plays an important role in the intensity and frequency of toothache. Consuming food that are high in sugar and acidic in nature can lead to tooth erosion and cavity formation, causing intermittent tooth pain.  

Adopting a diet high in calcium and phosphorus, such as dairy products and leafy greens, is essential for maintaining healthy tooth enamel and preventing decay.

Stress is another factor contributing to fluctuating toothache due to unconscious teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism. This habit can lead to tooth wear, sensitivity, and intermittent pain. Managing stress and avoiding detrimental habits can thus play a crucial role in preventing recurrent toothache.

When to Seek Professional Help for Recurring Toothache

Timely treatment for a toothache, particularly involving localised swelling, alleviates pain more quickly and reduces the likelihood of developing a systemic infection which can have severe health implications.

Moreover, addressing dental issues early often means that less invasive treatment methods will be effective. For instance, minor tooth decay may only need a simple dental filling, while prolonged decay could necessitate extensive root canal treatment or even tooth extraction. It's also worth noting that the cost of dental care can increase with the complexity and urgency of the condition—another reason not to delay treatment.

If tooth pain is not due to dental causes, it could also be related to your medical conditions. Therefore it is essential to let your dentist know your medical history.

1)Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is one of the common causes of tooth pain, usually due to sugary foods and poor oral hygiene. Bacteria turn sugars into acids that erode enamel and reach the sensitive inner dental pulp, causing sharp pain when hot or cold items are stimulated. Untreated decay can lead to severe infections, intense pain, and systemic symptoms like facial swelling, fever, and difficulty breathing or swallowing, requiring urgent medical attention.

2)Damaged or Cracked Teeth

Physical damage to a tooth, such as a crack, chip, or fracture, can also lead to toothache. This damage exposes the sensitive inner layers of the tooth to bacteria, leading to infection or irritation of the tooth's nerve endings. The affected area may cause intense tooth pain when biting or chewing, and the crack can worsen over time, potentially leading to a broken tooth  and the discomfort can come and go, depending on the usage of the affected tooth and the degree of damage.

Toothache causes vary, but when a cracked tooth is involved, immediate dental care is essential to prevent further damage and discomfort.

3)Gum Disease

Gum disease and periodontal disease are infections of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. Poor brushing and flossing habits usually allow a sticky film of bacteria (plaque) to build on the teeth and harden to form tartar. In advanced stages of gum disease, sore gums, bleeding, and pain may cause discomfort when chewing on food. Additionally, gum disease can lead to loss of teeth and increase the risk of systemic health issues, reinforcing the importance of regular dental check-ups to maintain optimal oral health.

4)Teeth Grinding or Clenching

Bruxism, or teeth grinding and clenching, typically occurs during sleep, though it can also happen during the day. Over time, this habit can wear down the enamel, increasing tooth sensitivity to temperature changes or pressure. It can also cause jaw discomfort, headaches, and even fractured teeth, all contributing to dental pain.

5)Wisdom Teeth Eruption

The eruption of wisdom teeth—also known as third molars—typically occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood. These teeth can often cause pain and discomfort when there is not enough space in the jaw or if they emerge at an incorrect angle and begin to press against other teeth. In some cases, if a wisdom tooth becomes impacted, it can become infected or contribute to the crowding of existing teeth, necessitating tooth extraction.

6)Stress and Anxiety

Stress is another factor that can contribute to fluctuating toothache due to unconscious teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism. This habit can lead to tooth wear, sensitivity, and intermittent pain. Teeth grinding or bruxism can also cause discomfort to the muscles around your jaws. Managing stress and avoiding detrimental habits can thus play a crucial role in preventing recurrent toothache.

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What are the Preventive Care done?

Prevention is always better than cure; thus, understanding and applying these preventive strategies can significantly reduce the risk of developing severe pain from dental ailments and minimise the necessity for procedures such as tooth extraction or root canal treatment.

Regular dental check-ups

During these visits, the dentist examines your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay, inflamed gums, or other problems that could cause tooth pain or require dental treatment, such as dental fillings or root canal therapy. Check-ups often include:

• Professional teeth cleaning and polishing to remove plaque and tartar build-up
• Digital X-rays to detect early signs of decay not visible to the naked eye
• Screening for oral cancer

Proper oral hygiene practices

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is the cornerstone of preventing most dental pains. Effective routines help control the accumulation of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that contributes to gum disease and sensitive teeth—promoting overall better oral health. Key practices include:

• Brushing teeth at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush helps to minimise the risk of damaging tooth enamel or irritating gums.
• Fluoride toothpaste is used to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce decay.
• Flossing or using interdental brushes daily removes plaque and food particles between teeth that a toothbrush can't reach.

Dietary considerations and Lifestyle changes

A diet rich in certain foods can impact your teeth and gums. Consuming food rich in sugar and acidic foods can contribute to tooth decay. At the same time, a balanced diet can promote strong teeth and good gum health. Consider the following tips:

• Limit sugary foods and beverages, as they can encourage the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay.
• Avoid frequent snacking of sweets, which can increase the time teeth are exposed to potential decay-causing substances.
• Choose water instead of soda or juice, as it doesn't erode tooth enamel or contribute to decay.
• Incorporate calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese, and leafy greens to fortify teeth.

Adopting healthier lifestyle choices, such as cutting down on smoking, alcohol, and caffeine consumption while incorporating relaxing activities, can significantly alleviate stress and help prevent teeth grinding-related pain.

Home Remedies for Temporary Relief

Toothaches can cause considerable discomfort, prompting the need for immediate relief. While it is essential to seek professional dental treatment to address the root cause of dental pain, effective home remedies can provide temporary relief from toothache.

Conclusion

By understanding these common causes of tooth pain, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain their oral health and seek appropriate dental treatment when necessary. Regular dental visits are vital in detecting potential issues early and preventing the escalation of these dental conditions.

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Resources 

1. Fukuda KI. Diagnosis and treatment of abnormal dental pain. J Dent Anesth Pain Med. 2016 Mar;16(1):1-8. doi: 10.17245/jdapm.2016.16.1.1. Epub 2016 Mar 31. PMID: 28879289; PMCID: PMC5564113.
2. Erica Dorigatti de Avila, Rafael Scaf de Molon, Daniela Aparecida de Godoi Gonçalves, Cinara Maria Camparis. Relationship between levels of neuropeptide Substance P in periodontal disease and chronic pain: a literature review. https://doi.org/10.1111/jicd.12087. First published: 27 February 2014