Tooth pain comes in the form of mild sensitivity or a throbbing toothache. The pain may occur quickly without warning or start with slight sensitivity that gradually worsens. Walking and other forms of bodily movement have the potential to worsen dental pain.
Exposed Root
A tooth is composed of a crown and one or more roots. Enamel covers the crown and cementum covers the root surface. When the gum tissue around a root recedes, it exposes the root surface. Beneath the cementum on the root surface lies the dentin, which contains microscopic channels to dental pulp. Tooth-brushing and chewing easily removes the thin layer of cementum and exposes the sensitive dentin, according to the "Journal of the American Dental Association." Breathing cool air through the mouth while walking results in a sensitive tooth. An exposed root is also painful to sweets and cold foods or drinks.
Tooth Decay
Bacteria in the saliva break down sugars and starches to form an acid. This acid causes a cavity in the enamel of the tooth. If the decay progresses undetected and untreated, the cavity goes deeper into the underlying dentin and causes a toothache, according to the "Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry." A hole quickly forms in the outer part of the tooth and exposes the dentin to the oral cavity. Inflammation of the dental pulp results and creates a sensitive or painful tooth.
Abscessed Tooth
Cracks, tooth decay, repeated dental procedures and trauma can lead to an abscessed tooth requiring a root canal treatment, according to the American Association of Endodontists. An abscess develops when the pulp undergoes severe inflammation, leading to an infection. The infected pulp causes an infection of the bone, ligament and soft tissues surrounding the tooth. The accumulating pus from this infection creates a toothache in many instances. Walking or any other physical activity potentially aggravates the infection and increases the pain.
Pericoronitis
When a third molar or wisdom tooth partially erupts, a flap of gum remains over the chewing surface of the tooth. This creates a space where food debris remain after brushing and flossing. Inflammation and infection then develop into a condition known as pericoronitis, which results in a painful erupting tooth. Physical activity such as walking makes this pain worse.
Sinusitis
The upper teeth lie very close to the maxillary sinus. Some roots of these teeth actually protrude into the sinus. Because of this close proximity, an inflamed or infected sinus feels just like a toothache. Activities such as walking or bending over may cause the sinus pain to intensify, according to Sam Houston State University.
