Whether it's sharp or dull, constant, or intermittent, a toothache is troublesome. At Ottawa Smiles Dental in Holland, MI, Dr. Todd toothacheBrower and his staff understand how uncomfortable a toothache is, so they've provided some information about what might be causing your tooth to hurt and how it can be treated, both at home and in our office.

What causes a toothache?

There are several reasons why people visit their Holland dentist with complaints of a toothache. One of the most common reasons is because of tooth decay. Normally, cavities don't hurt, but if they go untreated or undetected, the decay can reach the inner portions of the tooth where the nerve endings are located. Gum disease or abscesses can trigger pain around a tooth. A broken tooth may also cause pain, particularly while chewing or otherwise biting down. A piece of food, such as a popcorn hull, can become stuck in between two teeth and cause pain from the pressure it puts on the gum tissue.

How are toothaches treated?

Depending on the source of your toothache, you may need a root canal to remove decay or a procedure to help reverse the effects of gum disease. If you think you've eaten something that's gotten stuck in your teeth, try flossing to dislodge the trapped particle of food.

For toothaches or any other dental problem you may be experiencing, contact Ottawa Smiles Dental in Holland, MI to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brower. Helping you smile confidently and comfortably is our ultimate goal!