Quiz: What Causes a Toothache?

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Few things can ruin your day quite like a toothache. The pain can make concentrating on tasks at work or school difficult. In addition, eating and drinking your favorite foods and beverages can become a problem. What causes a toothache, and what steps can we take to avoid them?

Try Our Quiz on Toothaches

  1. True or False: Pain could be linked to tooth decay.
  2. True or False: A damaged tooth can lead to discomfort.
  3. True or False: Bruxism can lead to uncomfortable symptoms.
  4. True or False: You can help avoid future aches.

Answer Key

  1. True. When a cavity forms, the outer enamel has become compromised either due to injury or poor oral hygiene. Bacteria has reached the more sensitive inner layers of dentin and now decay is occurring. Over time, this can mean the onset of tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, as well as painful aches that don’t subside after 48 hours.
  2. True. When you chip or fracture a tooth, even if the damage appears minor, you may still expose the inner tooth structure to harmful bacteria. Before you know it, you can begin to experience discomfort in and around the impacted tooth. Always talk to your dentist about repairing a damaged tooth. We can often address minor chips in a single visit!
  3. True. Bruxism is a disorder that involves the patient regularly grinding teeth or clenching the jaw. Without treatment, teeth grinding actually wears away enamel or even damages teeth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and subsequently, aches and pain.
  4. True. If your toothache was due to cavities, you can help avoid future cases. You can start by reducing your consumption of sugary foods and drinks and be sure you brush and floss daily. You can also see us every six months for a checkup and a thorough dental cleaning.

Do You Have an Aching Tooth?

We can discuss options for addressing pain or preventing aches altogether. To learn more, schedule a consultation with your dentist by calling Dr. Newman’s office in Tucson, AZ, today at 520-296-5439. We’re conveniently located inside the Grant Road Professional Plaza, and proudly welcome the residents of all surrounding communities.