Top 3 Causes of Toothaches: What You Need to Know

There’s nothing quite as disruptive as a nagging toothache. Whether it’s a dull ache or sharp, shooting pain, toothaches can quickly turn your day upside down. But what’s causing that discomfort? In this post, Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, CA, breaks down the top three causes of toothaches and how you can address them.

1. Cavities: The Usual Suspect

Cavities are the most common cause of tooth pain. When bacteria in your mouth produce acid, it can erode your tooth enamel, leading to decay. If left untreated, this decay can reach the sensitive inner layers of your tooth, causing pain and sensitivity.

How It Feels: The pain from a cavity can range from mild sensitivity to a sharp, throbbing ache, especially when eating something sweet, hot, or cold.

What to Do: Regular dental checkups are your best defense against cavities. If you’re already experiencing pain, it’s essential to see Dr. Serrano as soon as possible for a filling or other treatment to prevent the cavity from worsening.

2. Gum Disease: The Silent Culprit

Gum disease is another common cause of toothaches, particularly in its more advanced stages. When plaque builds up along the gumline, it can cause the gums to become inflamed and infected. As the disease progresses, it can lead to gum recession and even affect the roots of your teeth.

How It Feels: Gum disease pain often feels like a dull ache, accompanied by swollen, tender gums that may bleed when you brush or floss.

What to Do: Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting Alma Dental Care regularly for cleanings can help prevent gum disease. If you suspect you already have gum disease, early intervention is crucial. Dr. Serrano can provide treatments to manage and reverse the condition.

3. Tooth Abscess: The Serious Offender

A tooth abscess is a severe infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. It’s usually the result of an untreated cavity, gum disease, or a cracked tooth. The infection can cause a pocket of pus to form, leading to intense pain.

How It Feels: An abscessed tooth typically causes severe, persistent pain that can radiate to your jaw, neck, or ear. You might also experience swelling, fever, and a bad taste in your mouth.

What to Do: A tooth abscess is a dental emergency. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, contact Alma Dental Care immediately. Dr. Serrano will likely need to drain the abscess and treat the infection, possibly with a root canal or even tooth extraction in severe cases.

When to See Dr. Serrano at Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, CA

Toothaches are your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t right, and it’s important not to ignore them. Whether your pain is mild or severe, it’s always a good idea to have it checked out by a professional. At Alma Dental Care in Petaluma, CA, Dr. Serrano is here to diagnose the cause of your toothache and provide the treatment you need to get back to living pain-free.

Don’t let a toothache ruin your day (or night)—schedule an appointment with us today to find relief and protect your smile!

Categorised in: Dental Emergencies