Dental pain may be caused by a wide variety of conditions, illnesses or diseases. Most commonly, the cause of dental pain is one of the following oral conditions:

• Tooth decay. The most common cause of toothaches. Tooth decay causes cavities, which can cause a tooth to be sensitive and painful in response to certain stimuli. Untreated tooth decay can lead to painful infection (tooth abscess). When tooth decay is the cause of dental pain, it is usually focused on a specific tooth.
  
  
• Gum disease. A common cause of toothaches and jaw pain. Gingivitis and periodontitis can lead to infection of the gums. In severe cases, when there is bone loss and/or the gums recede, pain may be experienced as a result of exposed areas of the teeth. This type of sensitivity may affect many teeth (rather than a particular tooth). In addition, excessive use of over-the-counter teeth whitening products can irritate the gums, causing sensitivity.
  
  
• Debris. When food gets stuck in between the teeth and gum pain can result. This is particularly likely with certain types of food, such as popcorn hulls. Pain caused by debris is typically felt in only the affected area, and may become more severe over time if the debris is not removed.
  
  
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Muscles surrounding the TMJ may spasm, causing jaw pain. Muscles may become strained due to clenching teeth, physical trauma to the area or arthritis, which can result in jaw pain.
  
  
• Bruxism (teeth grinding). Grinding and clenching the teeth may result in dental pain, particularly upon awakening.

Additional causes of dental pain include:

• Trauma to head or teeth
• Fractured, cracked or broken teeth
• Exposed tooth root
• Dry socket (complication of tooth extraction)
• Abnormal bite
• Tooth eruption (in children) or impaction
  

  

• Meth mouth (caused by use of methamphetamine)
• Recent dental work (may be sensitive to cold for several weeks)

Dental pain may also be caused by conditions that are not dental in nature. These include:

• Sinus infection
• Heart problems (the pain usually increases with exertion)
• Ear infection
• Migraines
• Salivary gland dysfunction
• Neurological conditions (e.g., trigeminal neuralgia)
• Burning mouth syndrome