Why We Get Toothaches

Toothaches are a common dental problem that can range from mild sensitivity to severe pain, often disrupting daily activities and causing significant distress.

Understanding the various reasons why we get toothaches can help you take steps to prevent them and know when to seek professional dental care. In this article, we’ll explore the main causes of toothaches, associated symptoms, and available treatment options.

Causes of Toothaches

Tooth Decay

A common cause of toothaches is tooth decay (a.k.a. a cavity). When bacteria in the mouth produce acid that erodes tooth enamel, it can create small holes or cavities in the teeth. As the decay progresses and reaches the inner layers of the tooth (dentin and pulp), it can cause sensitivity and pain.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. People don’t think of gum disease as causing toothaches. However, pain from the gums can radiate to the teeth. Furthermore, in advanced stages, gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that harbor bacteria and lead to toothaches, sensitivity, and even tooth loss.

Tooth Fractures

Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth can expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, leading to pain and discomfort. Fractures can occur due to trauma, biting on hard objects, or weakened teeth due to decay or large fillings.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can be a result of thin or worn enamel. It is typically characterized by tooth pain associated with extreme temperatures of hot and cold.

Bruxism

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can cause toothaches because excessive pressure is repeatedly put on the teeth and jaw. Over time, this can lead to worn enamel, increased sensitivity, and pain in the teeth and surrounding muscles.

Impacted or Erupting Teeth

When teeth become impacted (stuck beneath the gum line) or are in the process of erupting, they can cause significant pain. This is particularly common with wisdom teeth, which often lack sufficient space to emerge properly.

Symptoms Associated with Toothaches

In addition to pain, toothaches may be accompanied by various other symptoms, including:

• Sensitivity to temperature or pressure
• Swelling in the gums or face
• Headache or fever
• Foul-tasting drainage from the affected tooth
• Difficulty chewing or biting

If you experience any of these symptoms alongside a toothache, it’s essential to seek dental care promptly to prevent the problem from worsening and to alleviate your discomfort.

Toothache Treatments

The appropriate treatment for your toothache will depend on the underlying cause and severity.

Fillings

If you suffer from tooth decay, an option is to remove the decayed portion of the tooth and replace it with a filling to restore its structure and function.

Root Canal Therapy

When decay or damage reaches the pulp, root canal therapy may be required in order to remove the infected tissue, relieve pain, and save the tooth from extraction.

Crowns

In cases of severe decay or fractures, a dental crown can strengthen and protect the damaged tooth, alleviating pain and restoring function.

Gum Disease Treatment

If gum disease is causing your toothache, we may recommend a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), antibiotics, or other periodontal treatments to manage the infection and reduce inflammation.

Extraction

In some cases, if a tooth is severely decayed, damaged, or impacted, extraction may be the best course of action to address pain and prevent further complications.

Preventing Toothaches

While toothaches can be painful and disruptive, many cases can be prevented through proper oral hygiene and regular dental care. To minimize your risk of developing toothaches, be sure to:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food between teeth
• Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages
• Wear a mouthguard if you engage in contact sports or grind your teeth
• Schedule your regular dental check-ups and cleanings to identify and address potential issues early on

If you’re experiencing a toothache, don’t hesitate, as the problem can get worse. Call us today to schedule your appointment!