Toothache: causes, symptoms and solutions

Are you experiencing tooth pain and wondering what’s causing it, or whether you should see a dentist? This article will help you find out.

At Clinique Dentaire 1935, we know how uncomfortable and upsetting a toothache can be. That’s why we’ve compiled the main causes of toothache here, along with tips on how to identify and relieve them effectively.

What causes toothache?

Toothache is common, and can occur even in people with good oral hygiene. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including :

  • Untreated tooth decay
  • Dental infection (abscess)
  • Inflammation of the dental pulp (pulpitis)
  • Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
  • Broken or cracked teeth
  • Eruption of wisdom teeth
  • Sinusitis

Let’s take a closer look at these different causes and the signs that can help you identify the origin of your pain.

The main causes of toothache

1. Tooth decay: a common problem

Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of toothache. It develops gradually, first attacking the enamel, then progressing to the more sensitive dentine layer.

If you experience increased sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods, pain when chewing, or notice a brown or black spot on a tooth, it’s likely that decay is to blame.

If left untreated, decay can reach the dental pulp and require more complex treatment, such as root canal therapy or crown placement. A prompt consultation can help avoid these complications.

2. Dental abscesses: an infection not to be ignored

A dental abscess is an infection that can develop at the root of the tooth (periapical abscess) or in the gums (gingival abscess). It manifests as :

Intense, pulsating pain
Swelling of the gums or face
fever and general malaise
Swollen glands
bad breath or the presence of pus

An untreated abscess can lead to serious complications. It is therefore essential to consult a dentist promptly for drainage and appropriate treatment.

3. Pulpitis: a painful inflammation

Pulpitis is an inflammation of the dental pulp, generally caused by deep decay or trauma.

If you feel a sharp pain that persists for several minutes after contact with hot or cold, you may be suffering from pulpitis. If left untreated, it can develop into necrosis, leading to a more serious infection.

4. Gum disease: gingivitis or periodontitis

Toothache can also be linked to gum disease. Inflammation caused by plaque and tartar build-up can lead to gingivitis, which manifests itself as :

  • Red, swollen gums
  • Bleeding when brushing
  • Sensitivity to touch

If left untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis, a more advanced infection that can lead to tooth loss. Professional cleaning and good dental hygiene can prevent these complications.

5. A broken or cracked tooth

A fractured tooth can cause sudden pain, especially if the fracture reaches the dental pulp. Signs include pain on chewing, increased sensitivity and sometimes local swelling.

Depending on the severity of the fissure, treatment may include a filling, a crown or, in the most severe cases, extraction.

6. Wisdom teeth: a painful eruption

The eruption of wisdom teeth can cause pain, especially if they lack space or grow in crooked. Common symptoms include

Pain at the back of the mouth
inflammation and swelling of the gums
discomfort when opening the mouth or chewing

In some cases, an infection (pericoronitis) may develop around the wisdom tooth. A dentist will be able to assess whether extraction is necessary.

7. Sinusitis: radiating pain

Since the maxillary sinuses are located close to the roots of the upper molars, sinusitis can cause toothache-like pain.

If you feel pressure on your face, nasal congestion and generalized toothache in the upper teeth, your problem may be sinusitis-related. A doctor will be able to prescribe appropriate treatment.

How to relieve a toothache?

Treatment depends on the cause. While you’re waiting for your dental appointment, here are a few tips to ease the pain:

Take an analgesic such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Apply a cold compress to the cheek if the area is swollen.
Avoid very hot, cold or sweet foods
Rinse your mouth with warm salted water to reduce inflammation

When should you see a dentist?

A toothache can sometimes be temporary, but certain signs call for prompt consultation:

Intense, persistent pain
Swelling of the face or gums
Fever and swollen glands
Pain that worsens at night
Broken tooth or unusual bleeding

When in doubt, it’s best to make an appointment to prevent the problem from worsening.

Why is the pain worse at night?

Many patients notice that their toothache intensifies at night. This can be due to a number of factors:

Lying down, which increases blood pressure in the head
A lack of distraction, which makes the pain more noticeable
nocturnal bruxism, which causes excessive tension on the teeth

If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend an occlusal plate to protect your teeth and reduce pain.

Need a dentist in Montreal? Make an appointment now!

If you’re suffering from a persistent toothache, our team at Clinique Dentaire Metro Papineau is here to help. We offer quality care to treat the cause of your pain and preserve your oral health.

📞 Book an appointment today and get your pain-free smile back!