Toothaches are common; you might feel persistent pain or only experience discomfort when eating. Regardless, most people get one at one point or another. It occurs when there's some sort of damage to the tooth, either to the surface or nerve endings. To better understand what's happening, here's what you need to know.

4 Reasons You May Have a Toothache

1. Abscess

An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to a bacterial infection. It can occur at the root of a tooth or in the gums. Tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma can cause an abscess. 

An abscess can cause a severe toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and gum swelling. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body.

2. Fractured Tooth

A fractured tooth can occur due to trauma, biting down on a hard object, or tooth decay. A fractured tooth can cause a toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and pain when biting down. If the fracture is deep enough, it can expose the nerve, causing severe pain.

3. Decay

Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acid that erodes the tooth's enamel and dentin. Tooth decay can cause a toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold foods, and visible holes in the teeth. If left untreated, decay can lead to tooth loss, gum disease, and other health problems.

4. Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can cause a toothache, bleeding gums, bad breath, and loose teeth. Gum disease is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth, which can lead to gum inflammation and infection. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other health problems.

If you've been suffering from a toothache, the team at Arrow Dental Care can take care of you. Located in Ellisville, MO, they've been trusted by residents throughout the Greater St. Louis area for a decade. They're highly trained and dedicated to creating a comfortable environment for their patients. You can learn more about it on their website. If you're ready to make an appointment, call (636) 220-7770.