Fixing a Toothache and Tooth Pain

If you have a throbbing pain in your tooth or jaw it may be a sign that you have a damaged tooth. Tooth pain can be a sign of many different oral health issues. Whether it is decay, a cavity, or a tooth infection, tooth pain is a good reason to schedule a visit to your dentist and have your oral health examined.  Below is more information about the possible causes of a toothache and steps you can take to treat your pain.

Causes of a toothache

Toothaches can be the result of many causes, including any of the following:

  • Tooth decay or a cavity is the most common cause of tooth pain. When there is too much bacteria building up in the mouth it creates a plaque that attaches to the teeth. Left untreated, this plaque leads to tooth decay and cavities. A cavity is a tiny hole that forms in the outer layer of the tooth. Cavities can let bacteria and germs inside the teeth, and also expose the inside of the teeth to air, causing discomfort.
  • Tooth abscess: When the pulp tissue inside the tooth dies it can cause an abscess, or a pocket of bacteria and pus. An abscess is usually caused by infection inside the tooth. A damaged tooth, such as a crack or fracture, can let bacteria into the tooth which can result in infection-causing abscess.
  • Tooth fracture: Cracks, chips, and broken teeth can happen. A fractured tooth can lead to throbbing pain and overtime if left untreated can let bacteria into the inside of the tooth.
  • Grinding or clenching of teeth: Usually occurring during sleep, grinding and clenching can happen because of stress, genetics, and over-developed jaw muscles. Grinding and clenching not only causes tooth and jaw pain, but also can wear away the tooth leading to erosion. Tooth erosion can increase the risk of cavities, tooth pain, and fractured teeth.
  •  Loose crown: A crown is a tooth-shaped cover that is used to treat a cracked or broken tooth. A crown can become loose through normal everyday use or fracture just like a normal tooth. A loose or broken crown can lead to throbbing tooth pain. Bacteria can get under the loose crown and may cause infection or inflammation in the tooth root.
  •  Eruption of a tooth: When a new tooth grows in, also known as erupting, it can cause pain in the gums, jaw, and surrounding teeth. If a tooth is not able erupt through the skin, it can become impacted. An impacted tooth can result in damage to nearby teeth, pain, and possibly an abscess under the gum tissue. When a tooth erupts or is not able to erupt it can cause a toothache.

When to see a dentist

Because there are so many possible causes of tooth pain, it can be difficult to determine when it is time to call a dentist. Some of the causes are less severe, but a tooth infection can spread to the bone, face, throat, and head. Therefore, it is better to be safe than sorry with tooth pain. If the toothache is paired with other symptoms you should call a dentist immediately. Other symptoms to be concerned about include:

  • Chronic pain that lasts longer than a few days
  • Pain when chewing
  • Fever
  • Swelling and red gums
  • Bad taste or smell in the mouth