The Science Behind Toothaches: What’s Happening Inside Your Tooth?

Toothaches can happen at any time—sometimes as a dull ache, other times as a sharp, throbbing pain that won’t let up. But what’s actually causing the discomfort? The answer lies deep inside your tooth, where nerves and blood vessels react to damage, infection, or pressure. Understanding what’s happening beneath the surface can help you recognize when a toothache is a minor irritation or a sign of something more serious. If you need expert care, a general dentist in Issaquah can diagnose the issue and provide relief.

The Structure of a Tooth: More Than Just Enamel

Each tooth is made up of multiple layers, and pain can originate from different parts:

• Enamel – The outermost layer is designed to protect against damage.

• Dentin – The layer beneath enamel, filled with tiny tubules that connect to the nerve.

• Pulp – The innermost part containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue.

When damage or decay reaches the pulp, the nerves inside send pain signals to your brain, causing discomfort ranging from mild to unbearable.

Common Causes of Toothaches and What They Mean

Not all toothaches are the same. Here’s what might be happening inside your tooth:

1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)

Cavities form when plaque and bacteria break down enamel. Once decay reaches the dentin, sensitivity increases. If left untreated, the infection can reach the pulp, causing severe pain.

2. Gum Disease (Gingivitis & Periodontitis)

Inflamed or infected gums can expose tooth roots, leading to pain and sensitivity. Advanced gum disease can cause teeth to become loose or shift, increasing discomfort.

3. Cracked or Fractured Teeth

A small crack can expose the dentin or pulp, triggering sharp pain when biting down. If bacteria enter the crack, it can lead to infection and worsen over time.

4. Tooth Sensitivity

If hot, cold, or sweet foods cause discomfort, worn enamel or exposed dentin may be to blame. Sensitivity can also occur after dental work or whitening treatments.

5. Dental Abscess (Infection Inside the Tooth)

A tooth abscess occurs when bacteria invade the pulp, leading to swelling, severe pain, and sometimes fever. This is a dental emergency and requires immediate treatment.

How Tooth Nerves Process Pain

Tooth pain is different from other types of pain because nerves inside the pulp don’t have the same protective mechanisms as nerves in other parts of the body. When inflammation occurs, the rigid walls of the tooth prevent swelling, creating intense pressure that sends pain signals to the brain. This is why toothaches can feel so sharp and unbearable.

Why Some Toothaches Come and Go

Intermittent pain doesn’t always mean the problem has disappeared. A toothache that comes and goes could indicate:

• A cracked tooth that shifts and exposes the pulp intermittently.

• A mild cavity that hasn’t yet reached the nerve.

• Sinus pressure pressing against upper molars.

• Nerve damage that is slowly progressing.

If your tooth pain subsides temporarily but returns, it’s best to see a dentist before the condition worsens.

When to Seek Help from a General Dentist in Issaquah

Ignoring a toothache can lead to serious dental issues, including infections that may spread to other parts of the body. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, fever, or difficulty chewing, a dentist can diagnose the cause and provide relief through fillings, root canals, or other treatments.

At APEX Dental Care, we’re dedicated to keeping your smile healthy and pain-free. Schedule an appointment today and take control of your oral health before minor discomfort turns into a bigger problem.