A toothache that surfaces or intensifies with movement, such as walking, can be an uncomfortable experience. This pain often indicates underlying dental or related health issues that warrant attention. Understanding why your tooth might react to the subtle pressures of movement can help clarify the situation and guide you toward appropriate care.
Understanding Why Your Tooth Hurts When You Walk
Pain in an upper tooth that worsens with walking often points to issues within the maxillary sinuses, which are air-filled cavities located above the upper teeth. When these sinuses become inflamed or infected (sinusitis), the pressure inside them can increase. This elevated pressure can directly affect the roots of the upper molars and premolars, which are positioned very close to the sinus floor, causing pain that feels like it originates from the teeth. The jarring motion of walking can amplify this pressure, making the toothache more noticeable.
A cracked tooth can also manifest as pain during movement. Even a microscopic hairline fracture can cause discomfort when pressure is applied, such as the slight biting forces or jaw movements that occur during walking. This type of pain often results from the crack flexing under pressure, irritating the sensitive pulp inside the tooth. The pain might be sharp and fleeting, or a dull ache that lingers, depending on the severity and location of the fracture.
An infection at the root of a tooth, forming a dental abscess, creates a pocket of pus and inflammation. This buildup of fluid and pressure within the jawbone can lead to pain. The vibrations and minor impacts from walking can exacerbate this existing pressure, causing the throbbing pain to intensify. An abscess indicates a serious bacterial infection that requires prompt dental intervention to prevent further spread.
Advanced gum disease can contribute to tooth sensitivity and discomfort with movement. As gum disease progresses, it can lead to the recession of gum tissue and the loss of supporting bone around the teeth. This exposes the sensitive root surfaces, making them more vulnerable to external stimuli. While less common than other causes, severe inflammation and bone loss can cause a generalized ache or sensitivity that is felt more acutely with the slight impact of walking.
When to Seek Professional Dental Care
It is important to seek professional dental care if tooth pain persists or worsens, especially when accompanied by other concerning symptoms:
- Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw indicates a potential infection that requires immediate attention.
- A fever alongside tooth pain suggests a systemic infection that could be spreading.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing due to tooth pain also signals a need for prompt evaluation.
- Any visible damage to the tooth, such as a large crack or chip, warrants a dental visit to assess the extent of the injury.
- If the pain is accompanied by a foul discharge or a bad taste in your mouth, this suggests an active infection or abscess.
- If the pain interferes with your daily activities or disrupts your sleep, it is a clear indication that professional help is necessary to diagnose and alleviate the discomfort.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
When you visit a dentist for tooth pain exacerbated by walking, the diagnostic process begins with a dental examination. The dentist will visually inspect your teeth and gums, and may gently tap on the affected tooth to assess its sensitivity. Dental X-rays are taken to visualize the tooth roots, surrounding bone, and any signs of infection or cracks that are not visible during a surface examination. Vitality tests using cold or electric pulp testers may be performed to assess the health of the tooth’s nerve. If sinus issues are suspected, the dentist may recommend a referral to an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist for evaluation.
Treatment approaches depend on the underlying cause identified during diagnosis.
Treatment for Sinus Issues
For tooth pain originating from sinus issues, the dentist might coordinate with a physician or an ENT specialist. This often involves managing the sinusitis with antibiotics to clear bacterial infections or decongestants to reduce sinus pressure.
Treatment for Cracked Tooth
If a cracked tooth is the culprit, treatment options can range from dental bonding for minor cracks, placing a crown to protect the tooth from further damage, or performing a root canal if the crack has reached the tooth’s pulp.
Treatment for Dental Abscess or Infection
In cases of a dental abscess or infection, the goal is to eliminate the infection. This typically involves prescribing antibiotics to control the bacterial spread and, if necessary, draining the abscess to relieve pressure. A root canal procedure is commonly performed to remove the infected pulp from within the tooth, or in severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, an extraction may be necessary.
Treatment for Gum Disease
For pain related to gum disease, treatment focuses on deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, to remove plaque and tartar. More advanced treatments may be recommended if the disease has progressed.