Why Does Your Tooth Hurt? Learn the Many Reasons for Toothaches

When it comes to toothaches, there isn’t just a single cause. For some people, it’s a minor issue that will pass within a day or two, while for others it can be a serious issue that could require immediate medical care. Read on to learn some of the most common reasons for toothaches and to discover when it’s time to call California Dental Group for an exam.

Tooth decay is the main cause of toothache

Without question, the most common cause of toothache is tooth decay. This is caused by not brushing correctly or frequently enough, eating too much sugar, skipping dentist appointments, and simply by genetics. To prevent toothaches that are caused by tooth decay, your best bet is to follow a good home oral health routine and to have regular dental exams and cleanings.

Other common causes of toothaches

While most toothaches are caused by tooth decay, there are another of other reasons you may be experiencing this painful situation. They include:

• Infection
• Bruxism (grinding your teeth while asleep)
• A bite that’s not in alignment
• Gum disease
• Trauma to your tooth
• A cause for babies and younger children could be tooth eruption

In all of the above situations, the only symptom is typically a toothache. For all of them, you’ll need to work with a California dentist who can thoroughly evaluate you to find the best way to move forward. Contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 right away to get an appointment made.

When toothaches accompany other symptoms

In some cases, you may have a toothache but also be experiencing other symptoms. For example, TMJ, sinus infections, ear infections, and damage to the muscles in the face can all feel like a toothache. However, all of these typically come with a headache as well.

If your pain is actually more around your teeth and around your jaw than in the teeth themselves, then that pain could be the result of a serious medical issue like heart disease. In the event you are seen at California Dental Group and we believe there’s a medical illness at the root of your tooth pain, then we may refer you to your physician.

If you’re feeling pain then you should get to the dentist

Many people have a toothache but don’t want to make an appointment with their dentist right away. Often they simply hope that the pain will go away. The truth is that sometimes the pain may go away, but it’s likely to come back. The main causes of toothache, which include cavities and gum disease, are not going to go away without treatment.

Even if you only feel pain when eating something cold, hot, or sweet, it’s time to see your dentist. At California Dental Group, we are here to find the cause of the pain and to treat in appropriately. You don’t need to live in pain. Call us today at (800) 407-0161 to learn more.