Common Causes of Toothache and When to See a Dentist

Toothache can range from a brief twinge when drinking something cold to a constant, throbbing pain that keeps you awake. Because many different problems can cause similar symptoms, it is not always possible to know the cause without an examination. This guide explains common causes and when you should seek dental care.

Common causes of toothache

Tooth decay

Decay creates holes (cavities) in the enamel and the layer beneath it, called dentine. As decay approaches the nerve, teeth may become sensitive to sweet, hot or cold foods. If left untreated, decay can reach the pulp and cause severe pain or infection.

Sensitive teeth

Worn enamel or receding gums can expose dentine, leading to sharp, short pain with cold drinks, sweet foods or brushing. Sensitivity is common, but it should still be checked to rule out other causes.

Cracked or broken teeth

A crack may cause pain when biting or releasing a bite, or sensitivity to temperature. Cracks are not always visible and can be difficult to locate.

Inflamed or infected pulp

When the pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed, pain can linger after hot or cold stimuli, throb, or occur spontaneously. Infection may lead to an abscess, with swelling and pain on biting. Root canal treatment is one way this may be treated.

Gum problems

Gum disease, food trapped between teeth or an infection in the gum can cause aching and tenderness.

Wisdom teeth

Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to inflammation of the surrounding gum.

Grinding and clenching

Grinding, often at night, can cause aching teeth, jaw pain and headaches.

Sinus problems

Sinus congestion can sometimes cause aching in the upper back teeth.

When to see a dentist promptly

Contact a dentist as soon as possible if you have:

• Pain lasting more than a day or two
• Swelling in the gum, face or jaw
• Fever alongside tooth pain
• Pain when biting
• A broken or knocked-out tooth
• A bad taste or discharge from the gum

Seek urgent medical help if swelling makes it difficult to breathe or swallow, or spreads towards the eye or neck.

What you can do in the meantime

These steps may help you stay comfortable until you can be seen, but they do not treat the cause:

• Rinse gently with warm salt water
• Floss gently to remove trapped food
• Use over-the-counter pain relief only as directed on the packaging and if it is safe for you
• Avoid very hot, cold or sweet foods
• Do not place aspirin or other tablets directly on the gum, as this can burn the tissue

How your dentist finds the cause

Your dentist will ask about your symptoms, examine the area and may carry out simple tests. Dental X-rays are often needed to see inside teeth and bone. Once the cause is clear, treatment options will be explained.

Preventing toothache

Many causes of toothache can be reduced through daily care — see how to maintain healthy teeth and gums — and regular check-ups that catch problems early.

If you are experiencing tooth pain, please call Dental Planet to arrange an assessment. This article is general information and does not replace professional diagnosis.