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10 Common Causes of Toothache

By May 15, 2025 - 6:59am

Toothache is one of the most unpleasant sensations that can throw even the most resilient person off track. It can be painful, stabbing, throbbing, or acute. But regardless of the type, toothache always requires attention and treatment. To help you understand the possible causes of tooth pain and avoid complications, we have gathered 10 of the most common causes of toothache that everyone should know.

1. Cavities
One of the most common causes of toothache is tooth decay. This is the destruction of tooth enamel by bacteria. When the enamel is damaged, bacteria penetrate deeper into the dentin and nerve endings, causing pain. In the early stages, caries may not cause much discomfort, but as it progresses, the pain becomes more severe, especially when eating sweet, hot, or cold foods.

2. Pulpitis
If a cavity is left untreated, it can lead to inflammation of the pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. Pulpitis causes sharp, throbbing pain that may worsen at night or when tilting the head. This condition requires immediate dental treatment and, most likely, root canal therapy.

3. Cracks and chips in the tooth
Even a small crack in the tooth can cause pain, especially when chewing. Microcracks are often caused by trauma, excessive pressure on the tooth, or biting on hard food. These cracks allow bacteria to enter the tooth and cause inflammation. Cracks also increase sensitivity to temperature changes.

4. Tooth abscess
An abscess is an inflammation caused by an infection. It can lead to the development of a sac filled with pus in the gums or at the root of the tooth. Accompanying symptoms include severe, persistent pain, swelling of the cheek, fever, and even difficulty swallowing. This is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment and often the administration of antibiotics.

5. Wisdom tooth eruption
Wisdom teeth can often cause problems. Their eruption can cause severe pain, gum swelling, and even inflammation. Sometimes wisdom teeth grow at the wrong angle, press on neighboring teeth, and must be removed. If the pain comes from the back of the jaw, the cause may be in the wisdom teeth.

6. Increased tooth sensitivity
Teeth may hurt when they come into contact with cold, hot, acidic, or sweet foods. This can be due to thinning of the tooth enamel or exposure of the tooth roots. Increased sensitivity often occurs in people who frequently use whitening toothpaste or brush their teeth too aggressively.

7. Gum disease
Gingivitis and periodontitis are inflammatory diseases of the gums that can lead not only to bleeding but also to excruciating toothache. Sometimes, the inflammation reaches the bone tissue that supports the tooth, causing it to become loose and cause pain. If you notice bleeding while brushing, this could be an early sign of periodontal disease.

8. Bruxism (Teeth grinding)
Many people unconsciously clench or grind their teeth while sleeping. This condition is called bruxism. It causes enamel wear, microcracks, and subsequent pain in the jaw and teeth. The first sign of this condition may be a feeling of jaw cramping in the morning.

9. Malocclusion
Misaligned bites can lead to uneven stress on the teeth. This causes increased pressure on some teeth, which can cause pain and even enamel wear. Orthodontic treatment can help correct your bite and relieve pain.

10. Food debris and inflammation between the teeth
Food debris stuck between the teeth, especially if you don't floss, can lead to gum inflammation, which can be associated with pain. This condition is often mistaken for a toothache, although the cause actually lies between the teeth.

The bottom line
Toothache is your body's signal that there is a problem. Never delay a visit to the dentist. The sooner you seek help, the better the chance of saving the tooth and avoiding complications. While you wait for your appointment, you can gently rinse your mouth with saline solution, avoid hot and cold foods, and take any pain medication prescribed by your doctor.

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