Severe toothaches can happen from time to time, but most often, they come about because of decay. Decay happens when bacteria build up on the outer surface of a tooth. This bacteria eventually spread into the deeper layers of the tooth, causing an infection. Because decay typically occurs without symptoms, you may not know you have a cavity until the infection becomes severe.

What Causes Toothache?

Toothache can occur for any number of reasons. Some of the common causes of toothache include:

• Tooth decay

When a person has tooth decay, bacteria in the mouth eat through the enamel and dentin layers of the teeth. This causes pain as the decay spreads to other parts of the tooth.

• Dental trauma

A tooth can be knocked out or fractured due to a number of reasons, including sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents, or a fall that results in a hard hit to the mouth and face, causing a toothache. 

• Dental infection

A tooth infection can occur when bacteria are allowed to accumulate within the mouth. Left untreated, infections can cause severe toothache, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and pus-filled abscesses.

• Gum disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, occurs when plaque and tartar are allowed to accumulate around and beneath the gum line. This causes inflammation, and as the gums pull away from the teeth, pockets become infected.

• Teeth grinding

Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding occurs when a person bruxes or clenches their teeth tightly together. If you were grinding your teeth in your sleep, you might wake up in the morning with jaw pain and a sore tooth.

• Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is caused when the enamel wears down. Enamel is the protective outer layer of each tooth, and it protects the softer dentin, the sensitive inner layer of each tooth. Once enamel is worn away, the dentin beneath is exposed. The dentin contains tiny tubules that lead to the nerve in each tooth. When the enamel is worn down, the tubules in the dentin allow hot and cold foods and beverages to come in contact with the nerve in the tooth, resulting in pain.

What Are The Common Treatments For A Toothache?

A toothache is one of the most common reasons people visit the dentist. If you experience a toothache, you should call your dentist. They will likely schedule you for an emergency appointment to determine the cause.

Treatment will depend on what caused the toothache. For a broken tooth, it could get re-bonded or completely replaced. If the cause is gum disease, the treatment would be to thoroughly clean the teeth, and any damaged gum tissue will be trimmed. If the cause is tooth decay, a dental filling or inlay might be needed.

Call us at (970) 479-0408 or visit Streamside Dental at 51 Eagle Rd, A1 Avon, Eagle-Vail, Colorado 81657, in case of a toothache. We will guide you further.