Symptom 7: Toothache or Spontaneous Pain
The sudden onset of a toothache can be jarring. This intense, often throbbing pain can appear out of the blue, with no apparent trigger. While there can be various causes for a toothache, spontaneous pain, especially one that doesn’t seem to have an evident cause, is often a clear indicator of advanced tooth decay.
Decay, when left unchecked, can delve deep into the tooth, progressing towards the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth which houses nerves and blood vessels. Once the decay reaches this region, the resultant inflammation can cause intense pain. The pain isn’t just confined to when one eats or drinks; it can be spontaneous, catching one off-guard.
Understanding the severity of this symptom is pivotal. Toothaches stemming from decay signal that the issue has progressed considerably. It’s no longer just about superficial enamel erosion; the very core of the tooth is now under siege.
Addressing this level of decay requires prompt professional intervention. Simple fillings might not suffice. Depending on the extent of decay, treatments could range from root canals to extractions. Visiting a dentist at the first hint of such pain ensures that the most suitable treatment is administered, halting the decay and preserving the tooth’s health. (7)
