When you develop a cavity, exposing the affected tooth to heat can sometimes trigger a sudden toothache. Hot food and beverages can seep into the small holes left in the enamel from tooth decay. This can expose the underlying layers, which are far more sensitive to extremes in temperature, to the heated substances, inflaming the tissue and irritating the nerves. The end result is an unexpected bolt of pain.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay and subsequent toothache are caused by plaque, notes the National Institutes of Health. Each time you eat, plaque begins to accumulate along your teeth. This plaque contains bacteria and acids, which can eat away at the enamel and cause decay. Eventually, the decay expands deeper into the tooth, leaving small holes and creating a cavity.
Symptoms
Once a tooth suffers decay, consuming hot foods or beverages can elicit a toothache. For some people, this ache is more of a dull throb, while others endure a sharp, shooting pain. The intensity of your toothache depends on your teeth's sensitivity to temperatures as well as the severity of your tooth decay.
Soothing Toothache
Rinsing your mouth with saltwater can often help soothe a toothache. Dislodging food particles with floss or taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen or naproxen can also help reduce the pain. For additional relief, consider applying an antiseptic to the affected tooth.
Treatment
Treating a toothache usually involves treating the cause of the pain, which is the tooth decay, so make an appointment with a dentist. Minor decay may respond favorably to fluoride treatments, which help rebuild weakened enamel. Filling and crowns are used on more moderate cavities. Severe decay can require root canals and even tooth extractions, warns MayoClinic.com.
Prevention
Brushing after meals, flossing at least once a day and swishing with a fluoridated mouth wash greatly reduce your chances of tooth decay and its associated toothache. Avoiding sugar-laden foods and drinks can also be beneficial. Instead, opt for fruits, vegetables, legumes and cheeses. Make regular visits to your dentist to maintain good oral hygiene.
