To know how serious of an issue your toothache may become, it is important to understand potential red flags. If tooth discomfort lasts only a short moment, this sensitivity generally does not signal a serious dental problem. There are several potential causes, such as a small area of decay in a tooth, a loose filling or an exposed root surface resulting from gum recession and possibly toothbrush abrasion. For children, toothaches can be tricky ordeals that cause distress for both the child and the parent. It's always best to address any child related dental concerns immediately.

There are certain human behaviors or foods that can start your toothache or in some cases, make it even worse. We generally refer to these as "triggers" and although they vary from patient to patient, there seem to be a consistent set of products and activities that aggreviate: