Toothaches can be caused by a number of reasons, most of which will need some type of dental work for a long term solution, but this is not necessary in every case. In some cases other pain can manifest as a toothache. These include the pain of the joints of the jaw, ear infections or other ear pain, and in some cases heart attacks.
The center of a tooth holds the pulp, and it is this material that holds the nerve endings. The pulp is very sensitive to inflammation or any other type of injury or stress. Below you will find the most common causes of these things; some of them will require a visit to an emergency dentist as quickly as possible.
Gun Disease
Bacteria from various gum diseases can also cause toothaches as they contribute to plaque and dental decay as well as gum diseases. Gum disease, if left untreated can result in severe pain and the loss of your teeth. Bleeding when brushing or flossing, in addition to pain, is a sign that you should get to the dentist. Gum disease is treatable, and it is fairly easy to develop the proper habits which will keep this disease from occurring.
Tooth Decay
All pain is caused by the irritation of the nerve for one reason or another; tooth decay is the classic reason for a tooth ache, and will get the number one treatment if the decay is caught in time, a filling. If left to long, tooth decay can require extraction or a root canal and crown.
Injury and Wisdom Teeth
If you have been injured, and a tooth or teeth have broken off, been knocked out, or are noticeably weakened contact a dentist as quickly as possible. The growth of wisdom teeth can also merit a quick visit to the dentist or oral surgeon as they can be very painful until they are dealt with.
