Reason Why Tooth Hurt

A toothache is no fun at all and can even be scary when you don't know what is causing it. A toothache is described as any pain, soreness or ache in and/or around a tooth. The tooth may be sensitive to temperature, painful when chewing or biting, sensitive to sweets, or it may even have a sharp pain or dull ache.

The Most Common Causes or Reason of Toothaches Are:

Tooth Decay

Also known as cavities, this condition refers to the decay of the outer surface (enamel) of the tooth. When plaque sticks to the tooth enamel, it feeds on the sugars and starches from food particles in your mouth. This produces an acid that eats away at the enamel, causing weak areas and holes. As the decay spreads inward toward the middle layer of the tooth (dentin), it can create symptoms such as sensitivity to temperature and touch.

Cracked Tooth

Your teeth can be weakened over time due pressure from biting and chewing. The force from biting down on a hard object like ice or a popcorn kernel can sometimes cause a tooth to crack. Symptoms of a cracked tooth may include pain when biting or chewing, and sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures or to sweet and sour foods. Treatment for this condition will depend on the location and direction of the crack as well as the extent of the damage.

Gum Disease

Also known as gingivitis and periodontitis, gum disease is characterized as an infection of the gums that surround the teeth. This infection eventually causes bone loss and deterioration of the gums. Gums become detached from the teeth, forming pockets that fill with more bacteria. Tooth roots are then exposed to plaque and become susceptible to decay and sensitive to cold and touch.

Sensitive Teeth

Sometimes you may notice that your teeth, or a specific tooth is sensitive to cold air, liquids and foods. There are people who simply have what is known as "sensitive teeth," meaning your teeth may have developed a sensitivity linked to cold temperatures.

Your dentist may have you start brushing your teeth with a special toothpaste made for teeth sensitivity, such as Sensodyne, to help alleviate your symptoms. He may also apply fluoride to your teeth (especially the parts of your teeth that meet the gum). Always let your dentist know when you are experiencing dental sensitivity of any kind.