Causes of tooth pain 📍 Tehran – Iran

Update in January 11, 2024

toothache

A toothache is a pain in or around a tooth. This pain can be sharp and sudden, dull and continues or it could be a Throbbing pain. A toothache or tooth pain is caused when the nerve in the root of a tooth or surrounding a tooth is irritated. The most common areas the pain can extend to include the jaw joint, ear pain, sinuses and if not treated could give occasional heart problems.

Dental pain causes


Tooth decay 

Tooth decay or a cavity is the most common reason for tooth pain. It can happen when bacteria eat through the hard enamel outer layer of a tooth. Bacteria are part of normal mouth and body health. However, too much sugar and other foods on your teeth can cause too many bad bacteria. Bacteria make a plaque that sticks to your teeth. Some kinds of bacteria give off acid that can lead to holes or cavities. Tooth decay might look like small white, brown, or black spots on your teeth.

Tooth decay for toothache

Tooth Damage 

Damage to the tooth is another common cause for toothache. For example, teeth that are chipped or broken due to trauma can cause tooth pain. Similarly, a broken or damaged filling, crown, or dental implant can contribute to tooth pain.

Gum Disease 

Gum disease is characterized by infection of the gums. More specifically, with gingivitis, the gums become inflamed and become hot, red, and swollen. When an infection occurs in the gums, periodontitis occurs.

Eventually, if left untreated, the infection causes bone loss and deterioration of the gums. Gums become detached from the teeth, forming pockets that fill with more bacteria. Tooth roots are then exposed to plaque and become susceptible to decay and sensitive to cold, touch, and chewing.

Tooth Sensitivity 

If you experience sharp pains when eating or drinking foods and liquids with extreme temperatures, for example, it could mean you have a cavity. But it may also be a sign that you have sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity occurs when the inner layer of your tooth, known as dentin, becomes exposed. This type of toothache occurs even when there’s no cavity to find. Dentin usually becomes exposed when there’s a wearing down of enamel or gum recession. These things can occur because of overbrushing, trauma, or another reason.

Dental abscess

Pain is associated with swelling of the gums or face, or you have discharge around a tooth; fever is an important sign of infection in dental disease. Simple dental decay does not cause fever. These signs may signify an infection surrounding the tooth, the gum, or the mandible (jaw bone). Fever and swelling may indicate the presence of an abscess. Dental abscesses may require antibiotics and surgical opening (drainage) of the abscess. When this procedure is recommended to be done inside the tooth (endodontic drainage), “root canal” therapy is performed.

 

abscess for toothache

 

Bruxism 

Bruxism characterized by clenching and teeth grinding, often while sleeping—may occur without you knowing it. But, particularly over time, it may cause tooth sensitivity, as well as tooth or facial pain.

Orthodontic Alignment

Braces, retainers, and other dental alignment systems are a common cause for oral discomfort and aching pain among teeth. Pain is usually fairly noticeable right after adjustments which tighten or move teeth, but typically subsides after a few days. If the pain is still extremely uncomfortable and persisting, discuss with your orthodontist about readjusting your orthodontic appliance so that it does not interfere with your daily life.

Improper Brushing or Flossing 

Very often people do not pay attention to the pressure they are using when they brush and floss their teeth and end up pressing much too hard. This results in irritated, inflamed, and bleeding gums. If extreme pressure like this is constantly used, it can cause gums to recede and can make teeth unstable, resulting in more pain. Consult your dentist about proper brushing techniques and be sure to only use soft bristled toothbrushes.

Damaged Fillings or Dental Sealants

Dental fillings that cover deep pits, grooves, or fractures in teeth often protect vulnerable parts of the tooth. When these protectants are damaged, the sensitive parts of teeth are exposed to extreme temperatures, food particles, and bacteria. This can result in a pain that is anything from a dull ache to a sharp, piercing sensation. If you have a damaged filling or sealant, be sure to book an emergency appointment with your dentist to have it fixed before the vulnerable parts of your tooth suffer further damage or decay.

Loose crown 

A crown or cap is a tooth-shaped cover. It usually covers the whole tooth down to the gumline. You might need a crown if a tooth is cracked or broken, or if a cavity is too big for a filling. A crown holds the tooth together. It can be made of metals, ceramic, or porcelain. Dental cement holds a crown in place. A crown can become loose through normal wear and tear. It can also chip or crack like a real tooth. The cement glue holding a crown in place may wash out. You may damage a crown by clenching or grinding your teeth or biting something hard. A loose crown can trigger throbbing tooth pain. This happens because bacteria can get under the crown. The tooth may become infected or damaged, triggering nerve pain.

When to see a dentist


A tooth infection can spread to the jaw bone and other areas of the face, throat, and head. Call your dentist immediately if you have other symptoms along with a toothache. These can include:

  • pain that lasts longer than a day
  • pain when biting or chewing
  • fever
  • swelling
  • red gums
  • bad taste or smell
  • difficulty swallowing

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