Why Do I Keep Getting Toothaches?

lady with sore jaw

A toothache can be a troubling problem, and some toothaches are downright miserable. If you’re having a toothache, it’s important to understand what could be causing it to happen. You may need to see the dentist in Aitkin and Deerwood, MN. Taking swift action could help you avoid a more serious problem.

Common Causes of Toothaches

There are many things that can cause a toothache. For example:

  • A crack or chip in your tooth. If you have a crack or chip in your tooth, you may experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures and occasional pain when biting down.
  • A cavity. A cavity is a place where the tooth enamel has decayed. Cavities are caused by a combination of bacteria and acid in the mouth, and poor hygiene habits that allow the bacteria and acid to linger there. Cavities can be painful at random times and when biting down, or eating sweet foods.
  • An infection in the tooth. An infection in the pulp of the tooth can be very painful. This is an example of a dental emergency. If you have an infection in your tooth, you need a procedure called a root canal to clean out the pulp in your tooth, seal off the tooth from further infection, and a crown placed on top of the tooth to protect the weakened tooth enamel.
  • Injury. Sometimes a minor dental injury can cause pain around a tooth, especially if something has become temporarily lodged between the teeth or under the gums. These aches and pains often go away in a few hours or days.

When Is a Toothache A Dental Emergency?

A tooth infection is a serious problem. Infection can spread elsewhere in the body and leave your tooth in pain. If you’re experiencing severe pain in your tooth, it may be an infection. You should call the dentist as soon as possible.

Have a Toothache? Call the Dentist

If you’re experiencing a toothache, you may need a dental examination in Aitkin and Deerwood, MN. Call your dentist at River Oaks Dental to get advice and find out if you need to make an appointment.