A toothache can range from a mild twinge to an intense, throbbing pain that makes it hard to eat, sleep, or even think straight. While most people assume a cavity is the culprit, the truth is that tooth pain can have many different causes—some obvious, others surprisingly sneaky. Understanding the possible reasons behind your discomfort can help you take the right steps toward relief and prevent future dental issues.
Common Causes of Tooth Pain
1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)
The most well-known cause of toothache is tooth decay. Cavities occur when bacteria in your mouth produce acids that erode the tooth enamel. As the decay progresses deeper into the dentin and pulp, the pain often intensifies. Early-stage cavities may cause sensitivity, but once they reach the nerve, the discomfort can be severe and persistent.
2. Gum Disease
Gum disease—gingivitis in its early form and periodontitis in its advanced stage—can also cause tooth pain. When plaque builds up along the gumline, it can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and recession of the gums, exposing the roots of your teeth. This exposure can cause sharp pain, especially when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet.
3. Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It often occurs due to untreated cavities, gum disease, or dental trauma. Symptoms include severe, throbbing pain that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck, along with swelling and sometimes fever. An abscess is a dental emergency that requires prompt treatment.
4. Cracked or Chipped Tooth
A fracture in the tooth—whether from biting something hard, a sports injury, or teeth grinding—can expose the inner layers, causing sharp pain when chewing or when the tooth is exposed to temperature changes. Some cracks are visible, while others may only be detected by a dentist.
5. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
If you wake up with jaw pain or headaches along with tooth discomfort, you might be grinding your teeth in your sleep. Over time, grinding can wear down enamel, crack teeth, and strain the muscles around your jaw, leading to lingering tooth sensitivity or soreness.
Hidden Causes of Tooth Pain
While cavities and gum issues are common culprits, there are lesser-known reasons your teeth might hurt.
6. Sinus Infections
The upper back teeth sit close to the sinus cavities. When you have a sinus infection, pressure and inflammation in the sinuses can cause pain that feels like it’s coming from your teeth. This type of toothache often occurs alongside nasal congestion, facial pressure, and headaches.
7. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ or TMD)
Problems with the jaw joint can lead to pain that radiates to the teeth, making it easy to mistake for a dental issue. TMJ disorders may be caused by injury, arthritis, or chronic clenching, and symptoms can include jaw clicking, facial pain, and difficulty opening your mouth fully.
8. Nerve-Related Pain (Trigeminal Neuralgia)
Though rare, conditions like trigeminal neuralgia can cause sharp, electric-shock-like pain in the face and teeth. This occurs when the trigeminal nerve, which transmits sensation from your face to your brain, becomes irritated or compressed.
9. Referred Pain from Other Health Issues
Sometimes, tooth pain isn’t about your teeth at all. Heart problems, for example, can cause referred pain to the jaw and teeth. While uncommon, it’s important not to ignore sudden, unexplained tooth or jaw pain, especially if accompanied by chest discomfort or shortness of breath.
When to See a Dentist
While mild, short-term tooth sensitivity may fade on its own, ongoing or severe tooth pain should never be ignored. The longer you delay treatment, the greater the risk of the problem worsening and requiring more complex—and costly—procedures later. If you’re in distress, don’t hesitate to seek emergency dental care in Colorado Springs.
Contact a dentist right away if you notice:
- Intense, throbbing pain lasting more than a day or two
- Swelling in the face or jaw
- Fever or swollen lymph nodes
- Signs of infection, such as pus or a foul taste in the mouth
- Tooth pain following an accident or injury
Preventing Tooth Pain
While not all causes are avoidable, good oral hygiene can significantly reduce your risk.
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Bottom line: Tooth pain can have many sources—from cavities and gum disease to sinus infections and nerve disorders. If your toothache lingers or worsens, don’t wait for it to “go away on its own.” Early diagnosis and treatment can save you discomfort, money, and potentially your tooth.