Common Causes of Toothaches

The causes of toothaches vary by each unique situation yet most are caused by dental cavities stemming from tooth decay. The symptoms of a toothache are usually a strong or dull but lingering pain around a tooth. Toothaches and dental cavities do not have to occur. Follow a regular oral hygiene regimen and you will greatly reduce the odds of a toothache.

Here is a closer look at the different causes of a toothache.

Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Tooth decay and gum disease are two common causes of toothaches.  Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria remaining from snacks and meals transforms into acid that subsequently wears away at the enamel of the teeth. Tooth decay can spur the formation of cavities and toothaches.  Furthermore, gum disease has the potential to lead to a toothache.

By brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, people can prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Visiting a dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning will also help. By rinsing with a fluoridated mouthwash and avoiding sugary foods/soda, people will also reduce the chances of a toothache.

An Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed or injured tooth can lead to a toothache. As long as the pulp, or middle portion of the tooth, is inflamed, a toothache can occur. An injured or abscess tooth will likely experience such inflammation as it leaves the pulp exposed to contact and possible infection. Abscesses are typically due to untreated tooth decay.

Damaged Fillings

Damaged fillings are one of the top toothache causes.  Cavities do not last until your final day.  Rather, they tend to last about half a decade or a decade or so.  They eventually crack when you bite into something hard.  Even a sports injury can cause a filling to become damaged.  When the filling is damaged, the tooth in question is no longer protected and is therefore susceptible to infection as well as discomfort.

A Cracked Tooth

Teeth are meant to be protected by the layers of enamel and dentin.  However, it is possible for these surfaces to chip or crack due to age, injury, chewing on hard objects etc.  If they crack, the hard surface can shift during the chewing process and cause pulp pain. A cracked tooth can also lead to sensitivity to temperature and/or a nasty infection.

Infected Gums

Also referred to as gingivitis, infected gums occur with the growth of bacteria, subsequent plaque builds up and inflammation. Gingivitis will prove uncomfortable yet it is treatable.  The problem is plenty of people leave it untreated to the point that it leads to periodontitis, toothaches and possible tooth loss.

Grinding the Teeth is Another Little-known Toothache Cause

More people grind their teeth more than the average person assumes. If you grind your teeth on a regular basis, it can cause significant damage to your teeth. Grind your teeth too much and it will fracture or crack the teeth and possibly even lead to tooth loss.

Call (703) 745-3227 to schedule an appointment with Titan Dental Care in our Sterling dental office.