Pain in tooth root, It is an extremely disturbing health problem that most people encounter at some point in their lives, making even daily activities difficult. Especially the throbbing that occurs suddenly while eating, consuming something hot or cold, or while sleeping at night shows how severe the pain caused by the tooth root can be. The tooth root, which is one of the most sensitive areas in terms of oral and dental health, can become inflamed, infected or traumatized due to different factors.
This situation negatively affects not only oral comfort but also overall quality of life. Early recognition of the causes of tooth root pain and application of appropriate treatment methods are of great importance in preventing further complications. So, why does tooth root pain occur, what symptoms does it manifest itself with and how can this annoying condition be treated? In this article, we will examine the answers to all these questions in detail.
What is the Function of the Tooth Root and Why is It So Important?
The tooth root is a basic structure that holds the tooth firmly to the jawbone and enables the tooth to remain healthy for a long time. This part of the tooth, which is not visible from the outside, is actually the most critical area that maintains the vitality of the tooth. There are thin veins and sensitive nerves inside the root. These veins nourish the tooth, carry the necessary oxygen and minerals, while the nerves perceive stimuli such as hot and cold and allow the tooth to communicate with its environment.
It is not possible for the tooth to remain healthy without a tooth root; a problem in the root can lead to serious consequences that can lead to the complete loss of the tooth over time. In addition, inflammation in the root area carries the risk of infection that does not only remain in the mouth but can also spread to the jawbone or other parts of the body. Therefore, maintaining the health of the tooth root is very important both in terms of the durability of the tooth and our general comfort.
Causes of Tooth Root Pain
Tooth Decay and Advanced Infections
Tooth decay usually begins with bacteria accumulating in the mouth weakening the tooth enamel over time. As the decay progresses, it can reach the deeper layers of the tooth, namely the dentin part and from there to the root area. In decays that progress to the root, the sensitive tissues containing nerves and vessels become inflamed. In this case, the pain becomes very severe. If left untreated, the infection can turn into an abscess at the root tip and the pain can reach unbearable dimensions.
Infections Occurring in the Root Canal
In some teeth, previous root canal treatment may not be successful enough or a new infection may develop over time. When bacteria begin to accumulate in the root canals, a constant pain is felt at the root of the tooth. In such cases, a new root canal treatment is usually required.
Tooth Fractures
Situations such as biting a hard object, receiving a sudden blow to the tooth, or falling can cause cracks or fractures in the tooth. If this trauma extends to the root, the nerve tissue inside the root is affected and pain occurs. Sometimes cracks are not visible to the eye, but they still create intense sensitivity. This can indirectly cause pain in the root of the tooth.
Gum Disease and Periodontitis
Problems that initially appear as just gum inflammation can progress over time and cause the gums to recede. When the gums recede, the root surface is exposed and the tooth root becomes more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods. This causes pain, especially during eating.
Sinusitis or Infections in the Nearby Area
Inflammation of the sinuses (sinusitis), especially near the upper jaw teeth, can cause pain by putting pressure on the tooth roots. In such cases, although the pain may seem to be caused by the tooth, the problem is actually caused by the sinus.
How Do We Know If the Pain Is From the Tooth Root?
- Severe and Constant Pain: In infections that occur in the tooth root, the pain is usually throbbing and does not go away even when resting.
- Sensitivity to Hot and Cold: Pain increases especially when hot or cold drinks and foods are consumed.
- Gum Swelling and Redness: In the presence of infection, there is swelling and sensitivity in the gums.
- Bad Odor and Taste in the Mouth: A bad odor and bitter taste may be felt due to inflammation.
- Facial Swelling and Sensitivity: In advanced cases, swelling may occur in the face area.
- Pain Spreading to the Jaw and Head Area: Pain can start from the tooth root and spread to other areas of the head and jaw.
How to Get Rid of Tooth Root Pain
The treatment of tooth root pain is determined primarily by the cause of the pain and how far it has progressed. If the problem is caused by inflammation of the nerves inside the tooth, the most effective method is root canal treatment. In this procedure, the infected nerve tissue is completely removed, the canal is carefully cleaned and closed with a special filling material, and the tooth is saved. In some cases, antibiotics and painkillers can be used for a short time to prevent the spread of infection or to relieve severe pain; however, these medications are not a permanent solution. If the tooth is too damaged to be saved with root canal treatment, it may need to be extracted.
If gum disease is causing pain at the root of the tooth, the problem can be controlled by cleaning the teeth, gum treatments and regular oral care. If there is still infected tissue at the root tip after root canal treatment, this area is cleaned with apical resection and healing is achieved.
How can we prevent pain in the root of the tooth?
- Regular tooth brushing and flossing: Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day to prevent bacterial plaque.
- Regular Dentist Checkups: Visit the dentist at least every 6 months to ensure early diagnosis and treatment.
- Reduce Consumption of Sugary and Acidic Foods: Avoid these types of foods to prevent tooth decay.
- Avoid Habits That Will Damage Your Teeth: You can protect your teeth with simple measures such as not biting hard objects and not brushing too hard.
- Limit Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: These substances trigger gum disease and make healing difficult.
Although pain in the root of a tooth may seem like a simple discomfort, it can be caused by serious infections and dental health problems. Therefore, instead of underestimating the pain, it is important to see your dentist as soon as the symptoms appear. Early intervention will both relieve your pain quickly and protect the health of your teeth in the long term.
Remember, healthy teeth and roots are the foundation of a comfortable life and a beautiful smile. Give the necessary importance to your oral health and never hesitate to see your doctor for problems such as tooth root pain.
