Common Causes and Treatments for Toothaches and Oral Pain

Did you know that even minor tooth sensitivity often indicates a larger, more severe health concern or complication? Learn more about the common causes and treatments for toothaches and oral pain.

Dental Cavities

Dental cavities, also known as caries or tooth decay, form small holes in the teeth due to enamel erosion. Poor oral hygiene, frequent consumption of sugary and acidic foods, and the presence of bacteria in the mouth contribute to this erosion. Over time, these factors weaken and break down the enamel, leading to cavity formation. Untreated cavities grow larger, cause pain and sensitivity, and may even result in more serious dental issues, such as infection or tooth loss.

Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices help identify dental cavities early. Common signs of cavities include visible holes or pits in the teeth, tooth sensitivity or pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages, and persistent bad breath. However, cavities might not present noticeable symptoms in some cases, further emphasizing the importance of routine dental visits.

Treating Dental Cavities

The treatment for dental cavities depends on their severity and location. For smaller cavities, a dentist will recommend a dental filling. During this procedure, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the cavity is filled with a dental material like composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain. This restores the tooth’s structure and prevents further decay.

In cases where the cavity has progressed and affected the tooth’s pulp or nerve, a root canal treatment becomes necessary. This involves removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and shaping the root canal, and then filling and sealing the space. A dental crown is sometimes placed over the treated tooth to provide additional strength and protection.

Inflamed or Infected Dental Pulp

Inflamed or infected dental pulp, commonly associated with abscessed teeth, occurs when bacteria invade the innermost part of the tooth, known as the dental pulp. The dental pulp contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue, and when it becomes inflamed or infected, it often results in severe pain and discomfort.

Causes of pulp inflammation or infection include deep cavities, cracked or fractured teeth, and gum disease. Unlike dental cavities, which primarily affect the tooth’s enamel, pulp inflammation or infection involves the inner structures of the tooth and requires immediate attention to prevent further complications. Some symptoms of inflamed or infected dental pulp include throbbing pain, increased sensitivity to temperature changes, swelling in the gums or face, and a foul taste in the mouth.

Treating Inflamed or Infected Dental Pulp

A root canal procedure is the primary treatment for inflamed or infected dental pulp. As previously mentioned, the dentist will remove the damaged or infected pulp, clean and shape the root canal, and then fill and seal the space. Afterward, the dentist may place a temporary filling or crown on the tooth to protect it from further damage and restore its function.

In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary if the tooth is severely damaged or the infection has spread too extensively. This is typically a last resort when other treatment options are not viable. After the extraction, the dentist may recommend a dental implant, bridge, or denture to replace the missing tooth and maintain proper bite alignment.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. It begins with the accumulation of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—on the teeth and gums. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which further irritates the gums and leads to inflammation.

Over time, untreated inflammation results in periodontal disease, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth and forming pockets that harbor harmful bacteria. This can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and a variety of other oral health complications. Aside from oral pain, common symptoms of periodontal disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and changes in bite alignment. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing periodontal disease progression and preserving oral health.

Treating Periodontal Disease

The treatment for periodontal disease depends on its severity and progression. In the early stages, when it is known as gingivitis, professional dental cleanings and at-home oral hygiene practices are sufficient to reverse the condition. Your dentist or dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup during the cleaning, allowing the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.

For more advanced cases, a procedure called scaling and root planing may be necessary. This deep-cleaning method removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, smoothing the tooth roots to help the gums reattach. In some instances, additional treatments, such as antibiotic therapy, gum graft surgery, or bone grafting, may be recommended to address severe damage caused by periodontal disease.

Tooth Trauma

Tooth trauma refers to injuries or damage sustained by the teeth, gums, or surrounding oral structures due to accidents, sports activities, or other external forces. Common types of tooth trauma include chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth, dislodged or knocked-out teeth, and injuries to the mouth’s soft tissues. Symptoms of tooth trauma may range from mild discomfort to severe pain, visible damage, or bleeding. Prompt dental care is crucial in addressing tooth trauma to minimize complications, relieve pain, and restore the affected tooth or area.

Treating Tooth Trauma

The treatment for tooth trauma depends on the nature and severity of the injury. A dentist may repair the tooth using dental bonding, veneers, or a dental crown for minor chips or cracks. In cases of dislodged or knocked-out teeth, immediate emergency dental care is required. The dentist will attempt to reposition and stabilize the dislodged tooth or, if possible, reinsert the knocked-out tooth back into its socket. In some situations, a root canal treatment or tooth extraction may be necessary, followed by a dental implant, bridge, or denture to replace the missing tooth.

Bruxism

Bruxism, commonly known as teeth grinding or clenching, is an involuntary habit that often occurs during sleep or in response to stress and anxiety. Over time, bruxism can cause significant damage to the teeth, leading to tooth fractures, worn enamel, increased sensitivity, and jaw pain. It may also contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, headaches, and disrupted sleep. Identifying the signs of bruxism early on and seeking dental care can help prevent long-term complications and protect your oral health.

Treating Bruxism

Treatment for bruxism focuses on addressing the underlying causes and minimizing the damage created by teeth grinding or clenching. Your dentist may recommend a custom-fitted night guard to wear while sleeping, which protects the teeth from excessive wear and reduces the tension in your jaw muscles. Sometimes, dental correction may be necessary to repair damaged teeth using dental bonding, crowns, or veneers. Additionally, your dentist may suggest relaxation techniques, stress management strategies, or referral to a specialist if bruxism is linked to psychological factors or sleep disorders.

Learning more about the common causes and treatments for toothaches and oral pain ensures that you and your family are better prepared to maintain proper oral hygiene. Contact our friendly Gentle Dental Care team today and discover the many benefits of our superior general dentistry in Texas—we accept most insurances and Medicare.