Top Reasons For Tooth Pain

Few things are more uncomfortable and more inconvenient than tooth pain, especially over the holidays. A single toothache can make it hard to concentrate at work and especially difficult to eat. First and foremost, never ignore a toothache. While tooth pain isn't uncommon, the cause needs to be investigated. There are a variety of reasons for tooth pain, including the following culprits:

Cavities

Perhaps the most known cause of tooth pain is cavities, or tooth decay. If you are experiencing pain due to a cavity, the damage to your tooth enamel has already been done. In such cases, a filling will typically be needed to repair the hole in your tooth and relieve your discomfort.

Infection

Just like other parts of your body, your mouth is vulnerable to infection. This is often a consequence of poor dental hygiene. An infection can form a dental abscess in the gums or at the end of the tooth. This painful pocket of pus needs to be addressed promptly to prevent spreading infection. You may feel radiating pain and pressure in your jaw and even your ears if you have a dental abscess.

Enamel Erosion

If you experience tooth pain when you eat or drink something hot or cold, you may be experiencing tooth sensitivity due to thin or weak enamel. When the enamel wears thin from the acids we consume or from the natural aging process, the dentin layer is more exposed. Dentin contains the nerve ends of our teeth. Special toothpastes may be needed to help restrengthen your tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.

Bruxism

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is another common reason for tooth pain. If you grind your teeth during your sleep, you may be confused as to why your teeth hurt during the day. Not only can teeth grinding wear away your enamel, but it can also cause the teeth to break or chip. In addition, bruxism frequently leads to jaw problems and TMJ disorders. A custom nighttime mouthguard can remedy this type of tooth pain.

Broken Teeth

Even a tiny hairline crack in your tooth can cause pain. When a tooth is fractured, broken or chipped, the integrity of the tooth structure is compromised and painful nerves may be exposed to the outside environment (including harmful bacteria). If you suspect tooth damage of any kind, see your dentist for a restorative treatment. Seeking early care often means more conservative treatment.

At Cosmetic Dentistry of Hayward, we want to know as soon as possible if you have tooth pain. A sudden toothache can be considered a dental emergency, especially if it interfering with your day-to-day activities. We offer countless services to eliminate your discomfort and restore the health and appearance of your smile!