Why Do My Teeth Hurt?
Whether focused on one area of the mouth like your back teeth or a sudden flash of pain when drinking cold liquids, toothaches can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Here are the common causes of why your teeth may hurt:
Tooth decay: Tooth decay in the form of dental caries can result in toothaches and sensitivity. If you suspect you have tooth decay, see your dental professional right away.
Gum disease: When gingivitis advances into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease, symptoms tend to include red, swollen gums, bad breath, loose teeth, and tooth pain particularly when chewing.
Dental abscess: A painful infection that leads to the buildup of pus inside the gums or teeth that can result in throbbing pain in the gums, teeth, jaw, ear, and neck.
Enamel erosion: Enamel is the outermost layer of the teeth that protects it from sensitivity, staining, and infection. However, enamel can wear away over time, exposing the dentin layer underneath. When this occurs, sharp tooth pain in the form of sensitivity can be common.
Sensitivity to hot or cold: Hot or cold foods and drinks can cause a sudden, sharp pain in teeth when consumed. Try adding toothpaste that’s suitable for sensitive teeth to your daily oral care routine for greater comfort when brushing.
Oral injuries: A cracked tooth or crown can cause a toothache. See your dental professional right away for a treatment solution.
Impacted tooth: A tooth that has yet to erupt from the gum line can be followed by pain in the gums. A common example of impacted teeth are wisdom teeths which may not erupt at the correct angle and cause additional pain in the mouth.
Teeth grinding: Constantly grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw can cause enamel to wear away which can lead to tooth pain and sensitivity.
If you’re unsure of what may be causing your tooth pain, make an appointment with your dental professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How Do I Get Rid of My Tooth Pain?
Since some oral health issues can be tied to plaque bacteria, tooth pain caused by tooth decay, and gum disease can be potentially limited by following a thorough oral care routine:
Brush with 2X/day for the dentist-recommended 2 minutes each session.
Floss at least 1X/day to remove any leftover plaque and food particles from between teeth.
Swish with a fluoridated mouthwash to further wash away any lingering food and debris from your mouth.
See your dental professional every 6 months for professional cleanings and checkups.
From Oral-B, the #1 dentist-recommended toothbrush brand, worldwide. *
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/all-my-teeth-hurt-suddenly
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/why-do-my-teeth-hurt
