Tooth pain is one of the most unpleasant and distracting types of discomfort a person can experience. Whether it strikes suddenly or builds up gradually, a toothache is your bodys way of telling you that something is wrong. It can affect eating, sleeping, talking, and even your mood. Understanding what causes tooth pain and how to treat it is key to getting relief and preventing more serious dental problems.

The most common cause of tooth pain is tooth decay. When plaque builds up on your teeth and combines with sugar from your food, it creates acid that erodes the enamel. Once the enamel is weakened, cavities can form and expose the nerves inside the tooth, leading to sharp or throbbing pain.

Another frequent cause is gum disease, which leads to inflamed and bleeding gums. As the gums recede, the roots of the teeth may become exposed, causing sensitivity and discomfort. Tooth sensitivity itself can occur even without gum disease, often due to brushing too hard, grinding your teeth, or consuming too many acidic foods.