Most toothaches are brief, one-off incidents, but others can linger and signal deeper oral health issues. Regardless of how serious yours seems, it’s crucial to alert your dentist so they can uncover the cause. Below, you’ll find potential diagnoses you may receive and how to handle them.

What Causes Toothaches?

1. Decay

Tooth decay exposes the sensitive dentin layer beneath your enamel. Decay-causing bacteria can then irritate tooth nerves, resulting in mild or severe pain. A weak, decayed area can collapse when untreated, resulting in a cavity that requires a filling. Tooth decay isn’t always visible or accompanied by pain, which is why biannual visits to the dentist are essential.

2. Sensitivity

When you have weak enamel, hot and cold foods or drinks can irritate tooth nerves. It can be a single, stabbing pain or slight discomfort. A dentist will need to diagnose sensitivity, and they may provide a special toothpaste to remineralize weakened enamel.

3. Inflammation

If decay-causing bacteria enter the pulp chambers of your teeth, they can cause significant inflammation, swelling around the tooth, and inflamed gums. Pain may be constant, and root canal therapy is usually the only treatment. You can avoid this issue by addressing cavities as needed and having a dentist repair breaks or cracks in your tooth as soon as they occur.

If you’re dealing with a toothache or other oral health issues, contact Arrow Dental Care LLC. Serving St. Peters, MO, this dentist welcomes patients of all ages. Dr. Matt Howard is backed by ten years of experience and handles a range of issues, from general exams and consultations to emergency dentistry and oral surgery. Visit their website to explore the full scope of services and call (636) 441-6999 today to schedule an appointment. You can connect with them on Facebook for more oral healthcare tips.