Tooth pain doesn’t happen randomly. It’s almost always a sign of an underlying issue. Whether it’s a cavity, an infection, or something less obvious, pinpointing the cause helps us treat the problem at its source and prevent it from getting worse.

Tooth Decay (Cavities)

Tooth decay is one of the most common and preventable causes of tooth pain. It starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on your teeth and produces acids that gradually wear down the protective enamel. As the enamel weakens, cavities begin to form. 

If left untreated, cavities can grow deeper, exposing the sensitive dentin layer underneath or even reaching the inner pulp, where nerves and blood vessels are. This exposure can cause sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks, throbbing pain, or sharp discomfort when chewing.

Gum Disease

Inflamed or infected gums can lead to deep pockets around the teeth, exposing roots and bone, which are far more sensitive to temperature changes, pressure, and touch. This can result in persistent aches, discomfort while eating, and pain when brushing or flossing.

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is a painful, localized pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, usually developing near the root of a tooth or within the surrounding gum tissue. This can happen due to untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma to the tooth.

Symptoms include intense throbbing, swelling, sensitivity to pressure, a bad taste or smell in the mouth, and even fever. Dental abscesses require prompt treatment because the infection can spread quickly if left untreated, potentially leading to more serious health complications.

Cracked or Fractured Tooth

A cracked tooth often causes sharp or intermittent discomfort when you bite down or when the tooth is exposed to hot or cold temperatures. 

These cracks may be tiny, sometimes even invisible to the naked eye, but they can still allow bacteria or irritants to reach the inner layers of the tooth, including the sensitive pulp. Depending on the location and depth of the crack, the pain may come and go, making it tricky to diagnose without advanced imaging.

Exposed Tooth Root

When the gum line recedes due to gum disease or genetic factors, it can expose the tooth’s root surface. Unlike the crown of the tooth, the root is not covered by protective enamel, making it more susceptible to external stimuli. This exposure often leads to heightened sensitivity to temperature changes, sugary foods, or even airflow, causing noticeable discomfort during everyday activities.

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Bruxism refers to the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, often occurring during sleep. Over time, this repetitive pressure can wear down the enamel and cause microfractures, resulting in tooth sensitivity, jaw discomfort, or pain upon waking.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

When your wisdom teeth are trapped under the gums or pressed against neighboring teeth, they can cause pain in the back of the mouth, swelling, jaw stiffness, and even headaches. If left untreated, impacted wisdom teeth can also increase the risk of infection, crowding, or damage to surrounding structures.

Tooth Loss

When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth and jawbone can shift, leading to changes in bite alignment and added stress on nearby structures. In some cases, exposed bone or gum tissue where the tooth once was may become irritated or inflamed, especially if not properly healed or protected. Additionally, the absence of a tooth can cause overuse of adjacent teeth, potentially leading to sensitivity, strain, or pain over time.

Trauma

Tooth pain is often directly linked to dental trauma or injury, even if the damage isn't immediately visible. Accidents such as a fall, sports-related impact, or biting down on something hard can crack, chip, or dislodge a tooth. These types of injuries can expose the inner layers of the tooth, leading to sensitivity, sharp pain, or a constant ache.