An individual experiencing upper toothache can lead to discomfort that can disrupt with activities at home or at work. The upper teeth are positioned closely to the maxillary sinus, ears, eyes and the temporomandibular joint. This is why it can be quite a challenge to distinguish between an upper toothache and a different source. A dentist should be consulted due to the complex cause of an upper toothache.
Can an abscessed tooth cause an upper toothache?
Undergoing several dental restorations, dental decay, trauma and cracks can trigger the development of an upper tooth infection. These can cause lasting damage to the dental pulp or nerve. An infected pulp can cause inflammation and infection at the root tip which is called apical periodontitis. The condition can cause pain while chewing and prolonged or continuous upper toothache after contact with cold or hot food and beverages.
An abscessed tooth is treated with root canal treatment which involves removal of the diseased tissue and seals the root from future infection. The root canal treatment can save most teeth from the extraction unless it is severely decayed or fractured. The only alternative to this is extraction of the tooth.
Infection of the gums
The build-up of plaque between surface of the gum and tooth can lead to the development of periodontal disease. The tissues of the gums lose its connection to the tooth and bone. This results to the formation of a pocket that could not be cleaned with brushing and flossing.
The dentist must clean this pocket so that the gum can regain its attachment to the tooth. The pocket that is properly treated can become infected. It is important to note that gum infection can lead to tooth sensitivity until proper treatment is given. Swollen gums and a bad taste often accompany this condition.
TMJ disorder
The temporomandibular joint is responsible for articulating the lower and upper jaws. The joint is comprised of soft tissue and bone that is positioned in front of every ear. Pain and inflammation in this joint is often confused with upper toothache.
Sinus infection
The root tip of the maxillary posterior tooth is positioned at the floor of the maxillary sinus. Oftentimes, the root actually projects into the sinus cavity. Once the lining of the sinus is infected or inflamed, it is sore and can make the teeth ache.
Thorough testing of every tooth using cold, hot and biting tests is vital to come up with the right diagnosis. Palpation of the gum, tooth and bone adjacent to the tooth can provide the necessary information. An X-ray along with these tests can determine if the upper toothache has a dental or sinus origin.
Management
Prompt treatment of an upper toothache once it starts can prevent the development of serious issues such as infection. Once the infection spreads, the treatment can include antibiotics, pain medications and dental care.