Anyone who has experienced pain in the mouth knows how unpleasant it can be.
Tooth pain can vary in intensity and often results from different factors.
Below we provide an overview of the most common causes of toothache and ways to treat them.
1. Pain Caused by Cavities
Bacteria that cause cavities damage the enamel and dentin.
This makes the tooth sensitive to different stimuli – cold, hot, or sweet.
What does this pain feel like?
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Sharp and short-lasting
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Disappears immediately once the stimulus is removed
If you notice this type of pain, visit your dentist promptly for cavity treatment.
Similar pain can also appear in teeth with old fillings that need replacement.
2. Pain Caused by Nerve Inflammation
When a cavity progresses deep enough to reach the nerve, bacteria cause inflammation.
Symptoms:
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Very strong pain
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Appears spontaneously, without provocation, often at night
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Can radiate to the eye, ear, or neck
In these cases, patients usually visit the dentist immediately.
Root canal treatment (nerve removal and cleaning of the tooth) is required.
Since this procedure requires several visits, mild pain may persist in between, but once completed, the pain completely disappears.
3. Pain Due to Enamel Damage
Patients who use hard toothbrushes or brush too aggressively (especially horizontally) can damage the enamel.
Symptoms:
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Sensitivity to cold, sweet, and mechanical stimuli
Treatment includes changing your toothbrush and brushing technique.
In many cases, the tooth also needs protection with a filling to prevent further damage.
4. Pain After Dental Procedures
Tooth pain can also occur after certain dental treatments:
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After root canal treatment – pain may last a few days, especially when chewing.
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After filling placement – teeth may feel sensitive, but pain usually subsides with time.
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After crowns or bridges – temporary sensitivity to cold is possible until the teeth adapt.
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After tooth extraction – it is normal to feel pain for several days, which can be managed with painkillers.
If you experience severe pain after an extraction that does not improve with medication or within a few days, contact your dentist immediately.
5. Pain from Gum Inflammation and Periodontal Pockets
When gums and bone recede, periodontal pockets form.
These trap bacteria and food debris, leading to inflammation.
Symptoms:
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Dull pain
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Localized swelling
An X-ray is usually needed to assess the depth of the pocket and bone condition.
In most cases, professional cleaning reduces inflammation and prolongs the tooth’s life.
If the pocket is too deep and cannot be cleaned, tooth extraction may be necessary.
6. Pain Caused by Trauma
A blow to the face or mouth can cause dental injury.
Important:
A tooth may look intact on the outside, but the root or surrounding bone could still be damaged.
That’s why every dental injury requires an exam and X-ray.
Regardless of pain intensity, dental trauma should always be taken seriously.
7. Painful Changes in Oral Mucosa
Although not considered true tooth pain, ulcers (canker sores) and other mucosal changes can cause discomfort.
They most often appear on the cheeks, lips, or palate and can vary in size.
They usually heal on their own within several days.
Conclusion – How to Recognize and Prevent Tooth Pain
Tooth pain is one of the most common reasons for visiting the dentist.
However, regular check-ups once or twice a year help detect problems early.
Many dental and gum diseases can develop without pain, and once pain appears, it may already be too late to save the tooth.
