3 Reasons Why You Suddenly Have a Toothache

If you’ve recently started experiencing a sudden toothache and don’t know where it’s coming from, we feel your pain. Whether it’s a sharp shooting pain, a dull ache, or an intense throbbing in your mouth, nothing ruins your day more than a toothache. 

At Family Dental Group, our compassionate team of experts knows firsthand the impact these unexpected toothaches can have on your daily life. No matter the cause, we offer same-day care and a range of services designed to address your discomfort and prevent any further complications. 

But, why did your toothache seemingly come out of nowhere? Let’s dive into the mystery and uncover three common reasons why you might be suffering from a sore tooth. 

1. Dental decay

Although it can seem like your teeth are invincible, there are many ways they can become susceptible to decay over time. Dental decay can creep up without warning and cause sudden and painful toothaches. 

Often hiding beneath the surface, decay thrives by neglecting oral hygiene, leading to cavities and discomfort over time. To avoid the slow erosion of your tooth and the onset of pain, we recommend staying vigilant about your oral health. 

2. Tooth trauma 

As hard as you may try, sometimes accidents happen. From bumps and knocks to significant trauma, it’s important to identify the causes of your toothache to determine if it’s a more serious issue. Here’s what you need to know: 

Cracks and chips

Whether it’s a sports injury, fall, or simply biting down on something too hard, a sudden crack or chip exposes the sensitive inner layers of your tooth and can lead to some major discomfort and pain. 

Loose fillings or crowns

Ever experienced the frustration of a loose filling or crown? It's more than just an inconvenience — it's a major pain in your tooth. With your tooth left vulnerable to infection and inflammation, a toothache is almost inevitable. Luckily, our advanced dental crown, implant, and filling services are here to help.

Bruxism

Another major cause of toothaches is grinding or clenching your teeth. Whether you do this as a result of stress or while you’re asleep, bruxism can put excessive pressure on your teeth, leading to fractures, cracks, and tooth pain.

3. Gum troubles 

The rumors are true: Your gums do play a crucial role in keeping your teeth happy and healthy. That’s why when gum issues arise, you may notice a sudden toothache as a warning. Here’s what could be happening: 

Gingivitis

Known as the earliest sign of gum disease, gingivitis can cause your gums to become inflamed and lead to tender gums that are prone to bleeding. If you leave this untreated, it can progress to more severe forms of gum disease, toothaches, or even tooth loss. 

Abscess 

An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around the root of your tooth, usually as a result of a bacterial infection. If you’re experiencing a toothache along with other symptoms like swelling or even a fever, it’s time to reach out to our team. 

Receding gums 

Another reason you might be suffering from a sudden toothache is receding gums. This exposes the sensitive roots of your teeth, which makes them more susceptible to decay and discomfort. If this sounds like you, it’s crucial to address the underlying cause to prevent further damage. 

So, there you have it! Whether it’s from dental decay, tooth trauma, or gum troubles, there are many reasons your teeth may be sending you warning signals. Just remember that ignoring a toothache won’t make it go away and that we’re here to help you get to the root of the problem if you’re ready to put it to rest. 

Ready to learn more? Schedule an appointment with Family Dental Group online at our Gardner, Northborough, or Paxton, Massachusetts, office at the earliest opportunity!