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What are the Common Causes of a Severe Toothache?

K. Gierok
K. Gierok

Toothaches can, in some cases, be quite painful, and are caused by a number of conditions. While gum disease is considered to be one of the most common causes of this condition, other conditions, including a severe cavity, dental impaction, a broken tooth, and even a sinus infection, can lead to severe toothaches. In order to completely treat the symptoms of a severe toothache, it is essential for the cause of the pain to be identified. Once the primary cause is identified and treated, pain associated with a severe toothache will be dramatically decreased.

A severe toothache is most often caused by gum disease. Those who do not brush their teeth after each meal, and fail to follow other forms of dental hygiene, are at the greatest risk for the development of gum disease. In most cases, gum disease does not result immediately, but instead can take months or even years to develop to the point that severe tooth pain occurs. While tooth pain is a common symptom of gum disease, swelling and irritation can also suggest the development of the condition. Individuals who experience these symptoms are typically encouraged to seek medical assistance as soon as possible in order to ensure the best treatment results.

The development of a severe cavity can also lead to significant tooth pain. Like gum disease, cavities are caused by poor dental care for an extended period of time. In addition, research has found that some medications can also lead to cavities.

A toothache may occur for a number of reasons.
A toothache may occur for a number of reasons.

In many cases, a severe toothache is caused by dental impaction. Dental impaction is a condition that occurs when teeth are pressed together, such as when wisdom teeth begin to come in. Typically, individuals who suffer from dental impaction must undergo surgery in order to completely treat the condition.

A broken tooth can also lead to the development of a severe toothache. A broken tooth occurs most often when the individual affected eats ice, candy that is very hard, nuts, and other similar items. In addition, a broken tooth can also occur as a result of an injury. Those who suffer from a broken tooth must often undergo significant amounts of dental care, as infection and other dangerous side effects can occur.

Gum disease is the most common cause of a severe toothache.
Gum disease is the most common cause of a severe toothache.

Severe toothaches can also be caused by sinus congestion or inflammation. The sinus cavities are found near the cheekbones, and congestion or infection that occurs within them can cause severe pain to radiate to the teeth and gums. Prescription medications are typically required to completely treat toothaches associated with sinus infections and congestion.

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    • A toothache may occur for a number of reasons.
      By: absolutimages
      A toothache may occur for a number of reasons.
    • Gum disease is the most common cause of a severe toothache.
      By: detailblick
      Gum disease is the most common cause of a severe toothache.
    • Leftover tooth decay is one cause of tooth pain following a filling.
      By: Michael Tieck
      Leftover tooth decay is one cause of tooth pain following a filling.
    • Severe pain can result if a person breaks a tooth on a hard food like a popcorn kernel.
      By: Eric BVD
      Severe pain can result if a person breaks a tooth on a hard food like a popcorn kernel.
    • A sinus infection can be the cause of significant tooth pain.
      By: Innovated Captures
      A sinus infection can be the cause of significant tooth pain.
    • While there are many naturopathic remedies to relieve toothaches, it may be wise to get a second opinion if the pain intensifies or doesn't go away.
      By: Eléonore H
      While there are many naturopathic remedies to relieve toothaches, it may be wise to get a second opinion if the pain intensifies or doesn't go away.