Toothache is pain in and around the teeth and jaws that is usually caused by problems such as dental caries (tooth decay). The pain can range from mild discomfort to a severe, sometimes sharp or throbbing, pain in your head and ear. The inside of your teeth is made up of soft, delicate tissue that contains sensitive nerves and blood vessels. This tissue is called dental pulp and it is surrounded by layers of hard tissue called dentine and enamel for protection. The outermost layer of enamel is harder than bone. If the pulp becomes infected, it will be inflamed (pulpitis). It will also usually be painful (toothache). What causes toothache? Toothache can be caused by a number of things including: Dental decay (caries) - which can lead to cavities (holes) forming in the hard surface of the tooth A fracture (crack) in the tooth - which is often so small that it cannot be seen with the naked eye Some types of dental treatment - such as a filling that has become loose or broken Receding gums - where the gums contract (shrink) exposing softer, more sensitive parts of the tooth root Repetitive motions, such as chewing gum or grinding teeth There are a number of other conditions that can cause pain that is similar to toothache, even though the pulp of a tooth is not affected. These include an abscess in the gum (lateral periodontal abscess), ulcers on the gums (acute ulcerative gingivitis), halitosis (bad breath) and sore or swollen gums around a tooth that is breaking through, such as when your wisdom teeth start to come through (pericoronitis). Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses) can also sometimes causes pain around the upper jaw, as can injury to the joint that attaches the jaw to the skull, which is known as the temporomandibular joint.

Spots around the mouth can be a common and frustrating skin concern, affecting individuals of all ages. These spots can range from mild, temporary blemishes to more persistent and painful lesions, depending on the underlying cause. While many people might dismiss them as harmless, spots around the mouth can sometimes indicate more significant health issues, such as infections or allergic reactions. Understanding the causes and knowing when to seek treatment is essential for managing these skin problems effectively. In this article, we'll explore the various causes of spots around the mouth, including conditions like acne, perioral dermatitis, cold sores, and impetigo. We'll also discuss the symptoms associated with these conditions, provide an overview of treatment options in the UK, and offer prevention tips to help maintain healthy skin. By recognising the signs early and taking appropriate action, you can prevent spots around the mouth from escalating into more severe skin issues.

Halitosis, known to most as bad breath, is when an unpleasant or foul odour comes from your mouth. It’s very common and can affect anyone, from children to adults. In many cases, it does not last long and there is no serious underlying cause. However, with chronic (long-term) halitosis, it can cause a negative impact on the mental health and social well-being of people who suffer from it. Fortunately, there are some simple steps to help with bad breath, so let’s talk you through them.

A blister occurs when fluid collects in a pocket between two of the upper layers of the skin. It's very common and most often a result of friction such as shoes rubbing on the skin of your heel. The fluid that fills a blister is serum, the liquid part of blood. There can be other causes for blisters, such as a burn, abrasive substances, and sometimes viruses or medical conditions can cause blistering. Blisters should go within seven days and the majority can be treated at home. Blisters caused by friction or heat or toxic substances are not contagious. Blisters caused by some viral infections (such as impetigo, herpes, shingles and chickenpox) can be contagious. Blisters on the feet are the most common type of blister and there are a number of reasons why these typically form: Poorly fitting shoes that rub your feet Wearing high heels that put pressure onto one part of the foot Wearing shoes with no socks, or wearing socks that are too large and have wrinkles in them Having hot or sweaty feet