You try your best to look after your teeth, but now you’re left with a massive pain emanating from your mouth. Toothache is a pretty common ailment and can be harmless, but it can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem that needs addressing. The best thing to do is book a dental appointment as soon as you can so they can diagnose the problem. But, in the meantime, let’s take a look at some of the most common causes of toothache.

Grinding your teeth

Some people grind their teeth or clench their jaw when they are stressed or concentrating hard on something. Most of the time, they don’t even realize they’re doing it. Grinding your teeth while you sleep is also a common problem. If this is a persistent habit, it can wear your teeth down and cause frequent toothache.

Sensitive teeth

If your toothache feels like a sharp pain, then you could have sensitive teeth. People with sensitive teeth experience pain when their teeth are exposed to extreme temperatures – both hot and cold. Drinking hot and cold beverages can be painful, as can going out in cold weather. There are a number of causes of sensitive teeth, generally related to a wearing down of the enamel.

Poor oral hygiene

If you don’t look after your teeth and gums well enough or if your brushing technique is incorrect, then you will be more susceptible to toothache. Poor oral hygiene leads to plaque and tooth decay, which are common causes of toothache if they progress too far. As well as not brushing and flossing enough, you can also experience toothache if you brush your teeth too hard.

Gum disease

Toothache can also be caused by more serious conditions like gum disease. This is why it’s so important to get toothache checked out by your dentist so they can determine the cause. If it is gum disease, you may also notice red and bleeding gums, so keep an eye out for these other symptoms.

Dental procedures

If you’ve had braces fitted or tightened recently, or another oral procedure, then it is common to experience some pain following the procedure. This pain should pass in a few days, and you should just take painkillers to manage the pain if needed. If the pain is severe or it lasts longer than a few days, then visit your dentist to see if there is a problem.

Putting off a dental appointment means putting up with the pain and potential consequences of a toothache, so call your local dentist to arrange an appointment today. Get in touch for a friendly family dentist in Advance, NC.