When a toothache appears, it can be difficult to know exactly what the cause may be at first. The fact is there are many causes for toothaches, and they may not be so clear if you didn’t just experience a dental injury. What are the most common sources of your toothache? Below, you’ll find the most common ones below as described by a dentist!
Tooth Decay
When teeth develop dental plaque, that bacteria continuously breaks down enamel and begins to leech into the inner area of the tooth where the pulp lies. Keep in mind that you only experience pain caused by tooth decay when bacteria has reached past the many layers of enamel to the nerve that sits in the center of the tooth.
Tooth Abscess
An abscess is a pocket of pus that can form in different parts of the tooth, typically as a result of a bacterial infection. This pocket applies pressure to your tooth, causing moderate to severe pain and discomfort. This issue can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Fractured Teeth
Teeth can become damaged in a number of ways. Regardless of how they are fractured, pain can appear because the inner areas of the tooth are exposed to bacteria. Over time, the fracture will only grow in size, making the pain even more unbearable.
Sensitivity to Temperature
If you’ve ever noticed teeth sensitivity when drinking hot or cold beverages, it’s likely because your tooth enamel has begun to wear down. The more enamel wears down, the more vulnerable the nerves in the tooth become, which triggers this sensitivity. In some cases, this uncomfortable sensitivity can continue well after the stimulus is removed.
Damaged Fillings or Sealants
Dental fillings and sealants both have a shelf life. Whether your dental fillings are silver or made from composite resin, they usually begin to break down after about 10 years of use. The same applies to sealants because they use the same material.
Bruxism
If you find yourself waking up with tooth pain, it could be because you are unconsciously grinding and clenching your teeth. Not only can this cause discomfort, but also chronic problems in the jaw joints, neck, upper back and shoulders.
Poor Oral Hygiene
If you aren’t brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily, plaque can quickly collect on your teeth and begin to erode your tooth enamel. Furthermore, food debris can get stuck in between your teeth and apply pressure, resulting in discomfort.
Are you experiencing tooth pain? No matter the cause, if you have a toothache that won’t go away or is getting worse, be sure to contact your dentist. Waiting to let a small problem become larger will only cost you more money and lead to more problems later!
About the Practice
MoreSMILES Dental Spa does everything it can to protect patients’ oral health and get them out of pain. The last thing you should do is put off emergency treatment when Dr. Moreau Jr., Dr. Doyle, and Dr. Finger are prepared to stop your discomfort. To learn more about their practice or schedule a same-day appointment for your aching tooth, you can contact them through their website.