Causes of Toothaches

A toothache can come as a surprise or develop slowly over time. However, anyone who experiences a toothache knows how frustrating and painful this condition can be. Knowing the causes of a toothache and how a toothache develops can help you work with your dentist to spot and treat your problem early before it requires invasive or complex dental treatments. Find out more about toothaches with Dr. Kristine Houck Morris in Easton, MD.

What causes a toothache? 
Though a toothache can come from a damaged tooth, advanced tooth decay is their most common cause. Decay begins on the outside of the tooth and moves slowly through its layers, from the enamel to the dentin to the tooth’s inner pulp chamber which houses its soft tissues and nerves. Since the nerves which allow the tooth to feel pain lie at its innermost point, a toothache does not occur until the decay reaches the nerve, causing damage which results in a toothache.

How can I prevent a toothache? 
Preventing a toothache is often as easy as preventing tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association, every person, regardless of their dental condition or risk for decay, should brush their teeth for at least two minutes twice a day and floss between each tooth at least once. This, paired with regular visits with your dentist for routine examinations and cleanings, can help you fend off decay and prevent a toothache from ever occurring.

Why is preventative dental care important? 
Preventative dental care allows your dentist to spot the earliest signs of teeth decay. Finding and treating this condition early can help reduce your risk for gum disease and permits your dentist to use less invasive techniques to cure the decay. While a tooth with a small cavity requires only a simple dental filling, a more advanced case of decay may require a root canal or even, in cases of severe decay, a full tooth extraction. Finding these issues early can help you avoid complications and keep your smile healthy.

Toothache Treatments in Easton, MD

Do not hesitate when it comes to treating your toothache. If you notice that you have a painful tooth, you should see your dentist as soon as possible for treatment. Additionally, you may also schedule an appointment for an examination if you notice the following symptoms:

  • unexplained bad breath
  • sensitivity to hot and cold, especially while eating or drinking
  • a brown or black spot on the tooth
  • a hole in the tooth

For more information on toothaches, their treatments, or avoiding them altogether, please contact Dr. Kristine Houck Morris in Easton, MD. Call (410) 770-9211 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Morris today!

Contact Us

Send Us an Email

Our Location

Find us on the map

Hours of Operation

Closed from 12 - 1:00 PM for lunch daily

Primary Location

Monday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed