What Are the Common Causes of Dental Pain?

Dental pain, or a toothache, is the most common reason people visit a dentist. The degree of pain varies from minor to severe, depending on the cause. Most causes of dental pain are due to poor hygiene.
 

Minor toothaches due to temporary gum irritation can often be treated at home. Severe dental pain can be due to infection, cavities, and other oral issues. Good oral hygiene can help to prevent problems that cause pain.
 

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, or dental caries, is a common cause of dental pain. Bacteria in the mouth produce acids that cause minerals in the teeth to leach, which can lead to tooth decay. Regular consumption of sugars and carbohydrates increases the risk of decay.
 

Good oral hygiene can prevent enamel breakdown over time. It reduces the risk of cavity formation. When nerves in the teeth become exposed, the teeth become sensitive, and it causes dental pain.
 

Gum Disease

Poor oral hygiene can lead to receding or bleeding gums. The gums become inflamed when bacteria get between the teeth and gums. It can lead to gingivitis, a condition that is reversible if treated.
 

If not treated, the gum tissue can lead to periodontitis, characterized by gum recession and permanent bone loss. When the gum recedes, it exposes the sensitive part of the tooth. Cold and hot beverages, sweets, and other foods trigger pain in the teeth.
 

Dental Trauma

Trauma or injury to a tooth can lead to dental pain. A blow to the mouth can cause injury and result in a loose and painful tooth. While trauma results may be immediate, in some cases, results manifest days, weeks, or months after the event. Pain can resurface years after the initial impact occurred. Life is unpredictable, and accidents happen. If you participate in extreme sports or activities, ensure you wear mouth protection.
 

Impacted Tooth

The molars or wisdom teeth are usually the last to erupt. It usually happens between the ages of 18 and 24. As the teeth come in, it can be painful, especially if they emerge partially. If a tooth is stuck in the gums, it can cause severe pain. Bacteria can get stuck in the gum pockets. Inflammation or infection of the soft tissue can cause pain. Dentists usually recommend extraction of the impacted wisdom tooth.
 

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding (bruxism) can cause dental pain. It is a common cause of temporomandibular disorder (TMD), which is characterized by headaches, jaw pain, muscle tenderness, and toothaches.
 

The symptoms are common upon waking due to tooth clenching or grinding during sleep. Stress is a common cause of bruxism. Addressing the issues causing stress can help. It also helps to wear a custom mouthguard at night.
 

Tooth sensitivity and pain can be a hereditary issue. Some people have more sensitive teeth than others and are more prone to dental pain. It usually occurs as the dental enamel and root cementum fail to seal completely around the tooth during development. There are various types of dental pain depending on the cause. Your dentist can recommend the best treatment, depending on your condition.
 

For more on the common causes of dental pain, visit Attuned Dental Care at our office in Milpitas, California. Call 408-263-3090 to book an appointment today.
 

https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/2023/05/six-common-causes-of-tooth-pain