Common Causes of Toothaches and Their Treatments in Berkeley, CA
A toothache can range from a mild annoyance to an intense, throbbing pain that disrupts your daily life. No matter the severity, tooth pain is always a sign that something isn’t quite right. While some toothaches may resolve on their own, many require professional dental care to prevent further damage or complications.
At Your Dental Story, we understand how uncomfortable and distressing a toothache can be. In this post, we’ll explore the most common causes of toothaches, how to identify them, and the treatments that can help bring you fast and lasting relief.
What Is a Toothache?
A toothache refers to pain in or around a tooth, often resulting from inflammation or irritation of the tooth’s pulp—a soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. Because this area is highly sensitive, even minor issues can trigger significant discomfort.
Toothaches can be constant or intermittent, sharp or dull, localized or radiating. Understanding the cause of the pain is the first step to effective treatment.
Common Causes of Toothaches
1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)
One of the leading causes of toothaches is tooth decay. Cavities develop when plaque bacteria break down the enamel, leading to holes in the tooth. As decay progresses and reaches the inner layers, it can cause sensitivity and pain.
Symptoms:
- Sensitivity to sweets, hot or cold foods
- Dull or sharp pain when chewing
- Visible pits or discoloration on the tooth
Treatment:
A dentist will typically treat cavities with a dental filling. If the decay is extensive, a crown or root canal may be necessary.
2. Gum Disease (Gingivitis or Periodontitis)
Inflamed or infected gums can cause pain that feels like a toothache. In advanced cases, gum disease can expose tooth roots and even lead to tooth loss.
Symptoms:
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth or receding gums
Treatment:
Mild gum disease can be reversed with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene. Advanced cases may require deep cleanings (scaling and root planing), antibiotics, or surgical treatment.
3. Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often from an untreated cavity or trauma. Abscesses are serious and can spread to other parts of the body if not treated.
Symptoms:
- Severe, throbbing pain
- Swelling in the face or jaw
- Fever or swollen lymph nodes
- A bad taste in the mouth
Treatment:
Treatment typically includes draining the abscess, antibiotics, and a root canal or tooth extraction to eliminate the source of infection.
4. Cracked or Fractured Tooth
A crack in the tooth may result from trauma, grinding, or biting hard foods. Even hairline fractures can cause pain, especially when chewing or exposed to temperature changes.
Symptoms:
- Sharp pain when biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Inconsistent or unexplained tooth pain
Treatment:
Depending on the severity, treatment may include bonding, a crown, or a root canal. In severe cases, extraction may be necessary.
5. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to erupt properly, they can become impacted and cause pain, swelling, or infection.
Symptoms:
- Pain at the back of the mouth
- Swelling in the jaw or gums
- Difficulty opening the mouth or chewing
Treatment:
Impacted wisdom teeth often require surgical removal to prevent further complications.
6. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Many people grind or clench their teeth—often during sleep—without realizing it. Over time, this can wear down teeth and lead to sensitivity or jaw pain.
Symptoms:
- Dull ache in the teeth or jaw
- Headaches, especially in the morning
- Flattened or chipped teeth
Treatment:
Treatment may include a custom nightguard, stress management techniques, or dental restorations for damaged teeth.
7. Sinus Infections
In some cases, what feels like a toothache—especially in the upper molars—may actually be due to a sinus infection. When the sinuses become inflamed and press on nearby nerves, it can mimic dental pain.
Symptoms:
- Pressure or pain in the upper jaw
- Nasal congestion or sinus pressure
- Headache or facial tenderness
Treatment:
A physician can treat sinus infections with decongestants, nasal sprays, or antibiotics. If symptoms persist, it’s important to rule out a dental issue.
When to See a Dentist
Tooth pain should never be ignored. Even mild discomfort can indicate an underlying issue that may worsen over time. You should see a dentist if you experience:
- Persistent or severe tooth pain
- Swelling in the face or gums
- Fever or general discomfort
- Pain when chewing or speaking
- Tooth sensitivity that doesn’t improve
At Your Dental Story, we offer prompt and compassionate care for toothaches of all kinds. Our team uses advanced diagnostics and gentle treatment approaches to identify the cause and provide relief—so you can get back to feeling your best.
Preventing Toothaches
The best way to avoid toothaches is to maintain strong oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. Here are a few tips:
- Brush and floss daily
- Avoid sugary snacks and drinks
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
- Schedule dental check-ups every six months
Final Thoughts from Your Dental Story
Toothaches are never convenient—but with early attention and proper care, they don’t have to become a major problem. Whether you’re experiencing mild discomfort or severe pain, the team at Your Dental Story is here to help with expert diagnosis and effective treatment.