Tooth pain can be worrying, uncomfortable, and disruptive — especially when it appears suddenly. If you’ve been asking yourself “why does my tooth hurt?”, you’re not alone. Toothache is one of the most common reasons patients contact dentists, and the cause can range from something minor to an issue that needs urgent attention.
At Barnehurst Dentists, we regularly treat patients from Barnehurst, Bexley, Dartford and across South East London who are experiencing tooth pain. In this guide, we explain the most common reasons your tooth may hurt, what symptoms to look out for, and when to see a dentist.
Common Reasons Why Your Tooth Hurts
Tooth Decay (Cavities)
One of the most common causes of tooth pain is tooth decay. When bacteria break down tooth enamel, it can expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
Symptoms may include:
- Sharp pain when eating sweet foods
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- A dull, persistent ache
Left untreated, decay can worsen and lead to infection. Read more about fillings here. Oral hygene is very important when it comes to avoiding tooth decay, read more about this here.
Tooth Sensitivity
If your tooth hurts when drinking something cold or hot, sensitivity could be the cause. This often happens when enamel wears away or gums recede, exposing the tooth root.
Common triggers include:
- Cold air
- Hot drinks
- Sweet or acidic foods
Sensitivity can usually be managed with the right treatment and toothpaste, but it’s important to rule out underlying issues. Read more about how we do our Dental Examinations here.
Gum Disease
Gum disease doesn’t just affect your gums — it can also cause tooth pain. Inflamed or infected gums can make teeth feel sore, loose, or tender when biting.
Warning signs include:
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Swollen or red gums
Early treatment can prevent long-term damage.
Cracked or Damaged Tooth
A cracked tooth can cause sharp pain, especially when biting down. Sometimes cracks aren’t visible, but they can still cause discomfort.
Pain may come and go, making this problem easy to ignore — but cracks can worsen over time if not treated.
Tooth Infection or Abscess
A tooth abscess is a serious dental infection and often causes severe, throbbing pain. This pain may spread to the jaw, ear, or neck.
Seek urgent dental care if you notice:
- Swelling in the face or jaw
- Fever
- A bad taste in the mouth
Dental infections should never be ignored.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding or clenching your teeth — often while sleeping — can lead to aching teeth, jaw pain, and headaches. Over time, this pressure can damage teeth and cause sensitivity or fractures.
Sinus Problems
Upper tooth pain isn’t always dental. Sinus infections or congestion can place pressure on the roots of upper teeth, causing pain that feels like a toothache.
If tooth pain is accompanied by sinus pressure or congestion, a dentist can help determine the cause.
When Should I See a Dentist for Tooth Pain?
You should book a dental appointment if:
- Tooth pain lasts more than 1–2 days
- The pain is severe or worsening
- You have swelling, fever, or signs of infection
- Pain occurs when biting or chewing
Early diagnosis often means simpler, less invasive treatment.
Toothache Treatment in Barnehurst and South East London
At Barnehurst Dentists, we offer thorough examinations to identify the cause of tooth pain and provide tailored treatment. Whether you need a filling, root canal treatment, gum care or advice on sensitivity, our experienced team is here to help.
We welcome patients from Barnehurst, Bexley, Dartford and nearby areas, providing modern dentistry in a calm and friendly environment.
Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain
If you’re wondering “why does my tooth hurt?”, the answer is often easier to fix when caught early. Tooth pain is your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right.
📞 Contact Barnehurst Dentists today to book an appointment and get professional advice before the problem worsens.
