What Are the Most Common Causes of Toothache? 7 Things to Watch

There are many common causes of toothache you might have to suffer through! Toothache is incredibly common with many of us experiencing at least mild discomfort at some point in our lives. Children and teenagers often experience a toothache as they grow up. First, from the pain of new teeth coming through, some then find it painful when they lose their baby teeth, only then to suffer more when their permanent teeth come through.

This pain returns if the child has to have their teeth moved with braces or other dental work. But, for adults, the cause of their toothache isn’t always as clear-cut. Here are some of the most common causes of toothache to watch out for.

#1: Wisdom teeth

Popular to contrary belief, getting wisdom teeth through isn’t always a cause for alarm. We’ve all heard stories of people needing time off to have their wisdom teeth removed, and how much discomfort it causes. However, if the teeth come through well, without any impaction and facing the right way, there is often only very mild irritation when they break through the skin and certainly no need to have the tooth removed.

Often it simply depends on the amount of space the tooth has. If there isn’t enough, the tooth may become impacted, lying under the skin, never able to break through. This puts pressure on the gums and other teeth, causing pain. Teeth that come it at an odd angle can also rub against other teeth, gums or even the inside of your mouth, causing pressure or even cutting the skin.

#2: Trapped food

Not brushing and flossing well, every morning and night, can leave small pieces of food trapped in and between your teeth. This can lead to decay, erosion, irritation and even infection. Brushing your teeth well and eating right is the best way to make sure your mouth stays healthy and can prevent a lot of things on this list.

#3: Grinding

Many of us grind our teeth in the night or when stressed out. Grinding can lead to a toothache, jaw pain and even neck pain. If you are worried you may be grinding, visit your dental clinic. Your dentist could fit you for a nighttime retainer to prevent any grinding when you are asleep.

#4: Damaged fillings

Many people incorrectly assume that once they’ve had a filling that’s it. That tooth is fixed. However if not looked after fillings can become broken, damaged or even fall out. This is why it’s important to visit the dentist even you think things are fine.

#5: Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is widespread and can make it hard to enjoy food and drink. Even in people with strong and healthy teeth. Your dentist can help you to find toothpaste to prevent the discomfort of sensitive teeth.

#6: Gum disease

Gum disease is very much a hidden cause of pain. In extreme cases, gums can bleed, look sore and obviously carry disease. But, in most cases, it’s impossible for the untrained eye to spot gum disease, which can lead to constant pain, sensitivity and eventually a loss of teeth or even infections of the jaw.

Brushing your gums and using mouthwash can help to prevent this condition. Check out Best Foods to Improve Your Teeth: The Healthy Teeth Diet.

#7: Pregnancy

Yep, the hormones in pregnancy can inflame your gums – did you know that? According to Baby Center, “About half of pregnant women have swollen, red, tender gums that bleed when flossed or brushed. This gum inflammation is pregnancy gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease.” It’s just one more thing that new mothers have to put up with, unfortunately. To make matters worse, pregnant women can’t be prescribed antibiotics unless the situation is dire, so often have to suffer without heavy medication.

You do not need to suffer through these common causes of toothache

Looking after your teeth well with regular, and correct, brushing and flossing and making regular trips to the dentist is the best way to avoid toothache and pain while keeping your teeth healthy for longer. I make sure I go to my dentist every 6 months, it really is worth it. Shop around to find a dentist you like, who does a good honest job and your teeth will thank you for life.

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What Are the Most Common Causes of Toothache? 7 Things to Watch

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You might have experienced one or more of these 7 common causes of toothache. Here’s what to watch out for if your teeth are hurting & you’re in pain.

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Janelle

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Alyce Vayle | Content Strategist

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