Toothache? 5 Common Causes of Tooth Pain

Tooth pain is one of the most inconvenient types of pain.  You can’t enjoy your favorite meals without a sharp sensation shooting up your jaw, even talking can be uncomfortable.  A toothache can be caused by a variety of factors, but finding a quick solution is not always easy.  Here are five common causes of tooth pain; however, if you are experiencing tooth pain, it is best that you visit a dental health professional to have your pain properly diagnosed and treated.

1. Tooth Decay – Tooth decay can be minor or major.  However, even minor tooth decay could be causing your toothache.  Tooth decay occurs when bacteria has damaged the outer layer of your tooth.  Bacteria produce acid that breaks down your teeth.  Bacteria can cause minor tooth decay, often referred to as cavities, or it can cause major tooth decay.  Tooth decay, if left untreated, could result in the loss of your tooth.
2. Abscess – An abscess is a very painful infection of the tooth caused by bacteria.  It may be in the root of the tooth or in the space between the gum and the tooth.  An abscess may include general infection symptoms such as fever and swollen glands in the neck.  Visible signs can include red or swollen gums.  If you are experiencing these symptoms in addition to your toothache, see a dentist right away.
3. Teeth Grinding – If you are experiencing a regular dull ache or pressure in your jaw, it is likely caused by teeth grinding.
4. Loose Filling – A loose filling is often accompanied by pain when you bite or a pain reaction to hot or cold substances.  If there is a problem with a filling, it will usually be located in that particular tooth.  Pain in the surrounding teeth signals a different problem.  Your dentist can properly diagnose if there is a problem with your filling.
5. Gum Disease – When gums become inflamed due to improper care, they can lead to gum disease.  Gum disease is painful, causing swelling, reddening, and bleeding of the gums.  This condition takes a good amount of time to achieve, but once you have it, only a dentist will be able to treat it.