7 Reasons For a Toothache

A toothache is one of the most uncomfortable dental issues one can experience. But did you know toothaches aren't always the result of a cavity?

Toothaches can have various origins, and understanding the underlying reasons can help you get an answer as well as get effective treatment and prevention.

The Anatomy of a Toothache

Enamel, the hardest substance in the human body, is the outer layer of the tooth. Enamel does not have pain receptors, so it shouldn't "hurt." Beneath enamel lies dentin, which comprises the bulk of the tooth. Dentin does not include nerves either, but it is softer tissue, and what happens to the dentin can affect the more sensitive inner pulp. Speaking of the pulp, this is the innermost layer containing blood vessels and nerves, which are sensitive to pain.

When the enamel is compromised, it exposes the dentin and allows external stimuli like temperature, pressure, or bacteria to reach the nerves within the pulp. This interaction leads to the sensation of pain, experienced as a toothache.

Common Causes of Toothaches

Dental Cavities

Cavities, also known as tooth decay, are one of the leading culprits behind toothaches, which is why most patients think of cavities first when they get a toothache. Cavities result when the protective enamel of your tooth is eroded by acid-producing bacteria, allowing them to penetrate the tooth's inner layers. The result is sensitivity and pain that can range from mild discomfort to severe throbbing.

Prevention: Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and a balanced diet can help prevent cavities. If you suspect a cavity, seek prompt dental care to prevent further damage.

Gum Disease

Gum or periodontal disease, is another common cause of toothaches. It often starts with gingivitis, characterized by swollen, red gums that tend to bleed when you brush or floss. Early gum disease may mean painful gums. If left unchecked, gingivitis will often progress to periodontitis, causing your gums to recede and expose the sensitive tooth roots.

Prevention: Excellent oral hygiene habits, including daily brushing and flossing, can prevent and even reverse early gum disease. And regular check-ups are key since early detection can make the difference in reversing gingivitis.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common ailment that can cause sudden, sharp pain when you consume hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages. It occurs when the protective enamel on your teeth wears down or when your gums recede, exposing the underlying dentin, which contains tiny channels that lead to the tooth's nerve center.

Prevention: Use a toothpaste specially designed for sensitive teeth, avoid medium or firm toothbrushes, and follow a gentle brushing technique to reduce enamel erosion.

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is an extremely painful infection that can develop at the root of a tooth or between the gum and tooth. It often presents with severe, throbbing pain, swelling, and sometimes even a fever. An abscess requires immediate attention as it can lead to much more severe complications if left untreated.

Prevention: Maintain good oral hygiene practices to reduce the risk of infection, and seek dental care right away if you notice any signs of an abscess.

Cracked or Fractured Tooth

A cracked or fractured tooth can cause intermittent or constant toothaches, depending on the severity of the damage. Fractures occur from a variety of reasons, such as biting down on a hard object, teeth grinding (bruxism), or trauma.

Prevention: Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth, avoid biting hard objects, and seek dental treatment for any dental injuries promptly.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth often become impacted because there isn't enough space in the jaw for them to fully emerge. When they get trapped beneath the gum line or grow at an awkward angle, it can lead to pain, swelling, and pressure on the surrounding teeth.

Prevention: Regular dental check-ups can help monitor the development of wisdom teeth, and your dentist can recommend removal if they pose a potential problem.

Sinus Infection

Believe it or not, a toothache can sometimes be a result of a sinus infection. The upper molars are located close to the maxillary sinus, and when these sinuses become infected or congested, it can create pressure and referred pain in the teeth.

Prevention: Treat allergies if you have them, stay hydrated, use a humidifier, and seek medical treatment for sinus infections.

See Your Dentist ASAP

A toothache is your body's way of signaling that something is wrong in your oral health. Ignoring tooth or gum pain can lead to more serious issues down the road. If you're currently experiencing a toothache, don't delay—reach out to our office right away.