Table of Contents

• Common Causes of Toothaches
• Cavities and Tooth Decay
• Gum Disease
• Tooth Abscess
• Cracked Tooth
• Sinus Infection
• Impacted Wisdom Teeth
• Grinding or Clenching
• When to Visit Your Dentist
• Tips for Preventing Toothaches
• Helping You Restore Comfort in Arden, NC

It isn’t uncommon for dental patients to put off treatment when they’re experiencing discomfort. They may think the pain will dissipate and doesn’t require immediate treatment. However, some toothaches can be more than just a minor annoyance and, instead, a sign of a serious underlying dental issue. 

While some aches may be temporary and caused by sensitivity to hot or cold foods, others require immediate attention from a dentist. Understanding the common causes of this discomfort and knowing when to seek professional care can help protect your oral health and prevent more severe complications.

If you’re experiencing persistent toothaches, keep reading to learn what may be causing this and when it is time to reach out to your dentist for support. 

Common Causes of Toothaches

Cavities and Tooth Decay

One of the most common causes of toothaches is tooth decay. When the bacteria from a cavity break down your enamel, it can expose the dentin beneath or reach the nerves. As this happens, you may begin to experience increased pain and sensitivity, especially when talking, eating, or drinking. If left untreated, your cavities can progress into more severe infections that may result in tooth loss. 

Gum Disease

Gingivitis and periodontal disease can cause gum inflammation, leading to increased pain, swelling, and tooth loss in more extreme cases. If you are experiencing persistent toothaches along with bleeding gums when brushing and flossing, this may indicate that you’re experiencing a level of gum disease. In cases where you’re experiencing bleeding gums, it is essential that you reach out to a trusted dental team to treat it before the disease progresses. 

Tooth Abscess

Abscesses are pockets of pus caused by a bacterial infection. Oral abscesses are often accompanied by severe pain, swelling, fever, and a foul taste in your mouth. These form as a result of untreated infections and need to be treated by your dental team as soon as possible. Choosing to forego treatment for an abscessed tooth can lead to the spread of infection and possibly sepsis, an incredibly life-threatening medical condition. 

Cracked Tooth

If you crack or fracture a tooth as a result of dental trauma or accidents, this can expose the sensitive inner layers of your tooth. This exposed inner portion of your tooth may lead to pain when eating. This injury needs to be treated by a dentist as soon as possible to prevent discomfort. Leaving your cracked tooth untreated may result in further damage to the tooth and possible extraction. 

Sinus Infection

Sometimes, a toothache isn’t caused by a dental problem but instead by a sinus infection. Pressure from extreme sinus congestion can cause pain in the upper teeth. While this may seem concerning, if you have cold or allergy symptoms, you may be able to identify this as an additional symptom. However, you should still speak to your doctor if you believe you’re experiencing a sinus infection. 

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth that do not or cannot fully emerge may become impacted. Impaction is often caused by a lack of adequate space to accommodate the tooth, causing it to get stuck beneath your gums or grow at an odd angle. If your wisdom tooth is stuck, it can lead to a persistent toothache. If you experience this discomfort, you should reach out to your dentist to discuss whether wisdom tooth extraction is necessary. 

Grinding or Clenching

Chronic teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism, can cause toothaches, jaw soreness, and fractures. As your grinding progresses, your enamel may become worn down, leading to an increase in sensitivity. If you suspect you’re experiencing bruxism, your dentist may recommend wearing a custom mouthguard to prevent further damage and alleviate any discomfort you’re experiencing. 

When to Visit Your Dentist

While some minor toothaches may go away on their own, there are certain symptoms that indicate you need to work with your dental team as soon as possible. Some of these symptoms include: 

• Pain that lasts for more than two days.
• Severe pain that disrupts your daily activities.
• Swelling in the face and gums. 
• Fever or a feeling of illness. 
• Pus and a foul taste in your mouth. 
• Difficulty chewing and biting. 
• Bleeding gums accompanied by pain.

If you are dealing with any of these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with your dental team as soon as possible. Early treatment is essential for protecting teeth from harm, avoiding complications, and preserving oral health. With their support, you can restore your oral health and avoid future pain. 

Tips for Preventing Toothaches

The best way to avoid toothaches is by maintaining a great oral hygiene routine and attending regular dental checkups. Some additional preventative methods include: 

• Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. 
• Floss daily to prevent plaque buildup. 
• Avoid an excessively sugary or acidic diet.
• Wear a mouthguard if diagnosed with bruxism. 
• Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. 

Helping You Restore Comfort in Arden, NC

A toothache should never be ignored, as it may be a warning sign of a more serious dental issue. Understanding the common causes of tooth pain and recognizing when to seek help can protect your oral health and prevent long-term complications. If you’re looking for a reliable dental team in the Arden, NC, area, turn to our team at Arden Family Dental.

Our team is committed to providing dental patients across the city with the most reliable, comprehensive, and compassionate care possible. Whether you’re experiencing an ache or want to prevent the development of oral health complications, we’re here and committed to helping you through it all.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with our team or have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today.