Causes and Treatments for Toothache

Causes and Treatments for Toothache

Even if you’re consistently careful about oral care—brushing twice a day, flossing daily, visiting your dentist twice annually—you may still have to deal with tooth pain at some point during your life. Although it’s most likely a cavity, there are other causes for toothache.

Sensitivity

If you feel pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, it could be a cavity or it could mean that you have sensitive teeth. Receding gums or thinning tooth enamel can cause tooth sensitivity. Make an appoint with your dentist to confirm the cause of your tooth pain, but in the meantime, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.

Extreme Pain

When pain is sharp or stabbing as a result of biting down on food, again it could be caused by a cavity, but it could also be caused by a cracked tooth. If the pain is constant and throbbing, then it may be an abscessed tooth or an infection causing you problems. Any of these health issues should be addressed right away.

Sinus Infection

Sometimes it’s not your teeth at all. If you’ve been suffering sinus congestion and your upper teeth at the back of your jaw suddenly hurt, sinusitis could be causing your pain. In this case you’ll want to see a physician to help take care of the sinus infection—and more than likely your toothache will disappear with the sinus pressure.

TMJ

An aching jaw is most likely caused by temporomandibular disorder (TMJ), rather than a single tooth. Causes of TMJ include injury or trauma to the jaw, tooth grinding, arthritis, and cancer. 

Give Us a Call

Even if you think you know the cause of your tooth pain, it’s always best to be sure by visiting your dentist. We’re always happy to get you an appointment quickly so you can rest assured that whatever is bothering you will be taken care of right away.

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