Did you know a toothache can make your whole face feel painful? In fact, sometimes it’s difficult to tell which tooth is causing the problem because the pain may radiate all over. Problems with tooth decay, bone loss, or your temporomandibular joint are common causes of facial pain. Your dentist in North Little Rock, AR, can help you narrow down the source of your discomfort and relieve it.

Common Causes of Orofacial Pain

Facial pain brings many patients to their dentist, and there are several common conditions that cause it, including:

Toothache

Toothaches may be caused by tooth decay, inflammation of tooth pulp, gum disease, abscess, or dental hypersensitivity. Your dentist can treat these conditions easily, bringing an end to your pain and discomfort.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Your temporomandibular joint acts as the hinge that connects your lower jawbone to your skull. It’s this hinge that allows you to open and close your mouth for eating, talking, and yawning. When you suffer a TMJ disorder, you may experience pain beneath your ears or tenderness in your jaw.

Dental Bone Loss

Dental bone loss occurs when your dentist pulls a tooth, and you put off having something, such as a bridge or an implant, put in its place. Over time, the bone beneath the empty tooth socket will be reabsorbed by the body. This can cause your jawbone to become weak and may also cause problems with the way your upper and lower teeth fit together, resulting in facial pain or jaw fatigue.

Trauma

Trauma or injury to your teeth or mouth, such as a sports injury, is a common cause of facial pain.

Help for Orofacial Pain in North Little Rock, AR

Mounts Dental Care is your go-to solution for facial pain in North Little Rock, AR. Call today to schedule a friendly and informative consultation.