The Top 10 Reasons Why You Have a Toothache

When you have a toothache, it’s often difficult to think about anything else, except to wonder, “why does my tooth hurt?” Besides finding relief, determining the cause of your pain is probably at the top of your list of things you need to do. That’s why your dentist has written this guide on the top 10 reasons behind toothaches.

10. Orthodontic Alignment

Feeling sore after having your braces tightened or beginning a new set of clear aligners is normal, and it should subside after a few days. If your teeth are still uncomfortable after that, talk to your dentist about adjusting your orthodontic appliance so that it doesn’t cause pain.

9. Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth that have failed to erupt through the gumline are called impacted wisdom teeth. They can push against your other teeth and sometimes harbor bacteria that results in painful infections. Your dentist should be able to remove them and alleviate your pain.

8. Improper Brushing or Flossing

Many people use too much pressure when cleaning their teeth, resulting in inflamed or even bleeding gums. Eventually, your gums might recede, causing more discomfort. Ask your dentist for proper brushing and flossing techniques, and only use an ultra-soft toothbrush.

7. Teeth Grinding

If you wake up with tooth or jaw pain, you might have bruxism, a condition where you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep. This can result in headaches, TMJ problems, and even cracked teeth. The best solution is to see your dentist for a custom-made mouthguard to provide some cushioning between your top and bottom jaw while you sleep.

6. Damaged Fillings

When fillings that protect sensitive areas of the tooth break, this can leave that part of the tooth vulnerable to pain from extreme temperatures, bacteria, and food particles. If you have a damaged filling, see your dentist right away to get it replaced.

5. Temperature Sensitivity

If consuming something very hot or cold results in pain shooting through your mouth, your tooth enamel might have worn down, exposing the sensitive dentin layer underneath it. This can usually be remedied by using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.

4. Tooth Fractures

If you’re feeling pain in a chipped tooth, the fracture has likely spread to the delicate center of the tooth where the nerves are. This is why all chipped teeth should be evaluated by your dentist as soon as possible.

3. Gum Disease

This bacterial infection can cause inflamed, red, and bleeding gums. It can sometimes also result in tooth pain. Consult your dentist if your gums bleed when you brush and floss.

2. Tooth Abscess

If your pain is so widespread that it’s difficult to pinpoint which tooth is the culprit, a dental abscess may be to blame. This is a serious infection that warrants immediate medical attention, as it could spread to other teeth or even other areas of the body.

And, the number one cause of toothaches is…

1. Cavities

Good old-fashioned tooth decay is the most common reason behind tooth pain. Once decay spreads to the sensitive center of the tooth, it can result in excruciating pain that might even necessitate root canal therapy.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, see your dentist immediately for relief.

About the Author

Dr. Ukti Phadnis received her DMD degree from the University of Connecticut’s School of Dental Medicine. She keeps up with the latest techniques in modern dentistry through extensive continuing education courses, including those in how to diagnose and treat toothaches. If you are suffering through tooth pain, contact her at (860) 400-3007.