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I have a toothache, what does it mean?
Having a toothache is no fun, especially when you’re not sure what’s causing it. The pain can begin to affect your quality of life and even limit your ability to eat, depending on how severe it is. It’s important to see your dentist and find the root of the problem — pun intended! — so you can get it fixed as soon as possible.
There are a lot of factors that could be contributing to your toothache:
These are all minor causes that your dentist can help treat, but sometimes your toothache might be from a more severe underlying issue:
If you’re experiencing tooth pain that won’t go away, or is worsening, call your dentist right away and make an appointment to have it checked out.
May is National Mental Health Month — a time to fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families. Many people struggle with anxiety every day to the point where it can roll over into basic tasks such as going to the dentist.
Having dental anxiety can prevent you from getting the care you need to keep your smile healthy. Whether you’ve had a bad experience or have just always felt nervous about going to the dentist, it can be hard to work up the courage to schedule those annual checkups. Overcoming these fears can help ensure that you don’t miss out on any dental problems you might have.
Here are a few tips that may help you overcome your fear of the dentist:
When in doubt, talk to your dentist! Communicate your fears and concerns, and they will be able to help you overcome your anxiety.
Why Oral Health Is So Important for Your Overall Health
While you might not think your oral health has any connection to your overall health, they often go hand in hand. Your mouth is full of bacteria, both good and bad, which can sometimes spiral into certain diseases or infections.
As Mayo Clinic explains, there are many conditions linked to oral health, and it’s important to be aware of them:
Anytime you notice a new oral problem beginning to develop, contact your dentist immediately to ensure that it’s taken care of as soon as possible. You never know when it could potentially affect your overall health.