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9 Most Common Causes of Tooth Pain

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28th Jan 2022




Aches and pains in or around the teeth and gums can be distracting and uncomfortable. They decrease the quality of your daily life and may lead to more serious dental problems when untreated. For this reason, it is crucial to discover the source of your tooth pain and get it treated as soon as possible.

Learn more about the causes of tooth pain. 

1. Sensitivity

Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks can be caused by enamel erosion. When enamel erodes, it exposes dentin, a part of the tooth where the nerves of the tooth are located. The exposure of nerves to hot or cold can produce symptoms from mild discomfort to sharp pain. Temperature sensitivity can be treated with the help of special toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

2. Tooth decay

Tooth decay is the most common cause of tooth pain. Decay damages and weakens the tooth, eventually leading to the formation of a hole. While you can easily prevent tooth decay with help of proper dental hygiene, this condition is probably the most common cause of tooth pain. If you have tooth decay, call your doctor immediately. The doctor can fill the hole in your tooth and eliminate discomfort. 

3. Gum disease

Gum disease, also called gingivitis, causes inflamed, red, or bleeding gums, as well as tooth pain. Untreated gum disease can lead to severe discomfort and even tooth loss. Maintaining proper oral hygiene is usually enough to prevent gum disease. Besides, brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis will help treat minor gum disease. But if you have advanced gum disease, it's crucial to visit the dentist. 

4. Abscess

A tooth abscess is a pus-filled pocket caused by a bacterial infection. Abscesses can form in various areas of the tooth. A periapical abscess develops at the tip of the tooth root, while a periodontal abscess develops in the gums along the side of a tooth root. The dentist will have to drain the pus or perform a root canal. To avoid this, it is critical to see a dentist as soon as possible if you experience tooth pain.

5. Tooth fracture

A broken or cracked tooth can result from a physical injury, such as a sports injury. Biting taught foods too hard can also cause a tooth to crack. Mouthguards and fillings can help avoid and treat these injuries.

6. Teeth grinding

Many people find themselves grinding their teeth during the day or even at night, which can cause jaw and tooth pains. Teeth grinding can lead to enamel damage and may even result in tooth fractures. If you experience nighttime teeth grinding, your dentist may recommend wearing a special mouthguard to prevent teeth damage. 

7. Improper flossing or brushing

Brushing or flossing too hard might cause bleeding gums and tooth pain. Using the wrong toothbrush might also lead to dental discomfort. If you aren't sure about your brushing technique or the toothbrush you use, consult your dentist. A doctor can show you the right teeth brushing technique and choose the right 

8. Impacted wisdom teeth

Wisdom teeth appear between the ages of 17 and 21. Sometimes, wisdom teeth can impact the rest of your oral cavity, resulting in pain, infection, or damage to the permanent teeth. For this reason, it is often recommended to remove wisdom teeth to prevent complications. 

9. Sinus problems

If you've ever had a sinus infection, you probably know that it might result in a toothache. This is extremely common since the sinuses are located close to the roots of your upper teeth. When you have sinusitis, the tissues in those areas become inflamed, which leads the discomfort and pressure along your upper arch.