Toothache (Pulpitis) - Toothache - Causes and Symptoms

What is pulpitis or toothache?
Toothaches are caused by an inflammation of the pulp inside the tooth. The pulp is part of the inside of the tooth that has tissue and nerves. A toothache usually follows injury to the tooth. The most common form of injury to the tooth is from dental caries, or a cavity. This is often a result of poor dental hygiene.

What causes a toothache?
Most toothaches are a result of a cavity. Sugar and starch in foods are the substances that cause damage to teeth. The bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and starch and produce an acid that can eat through the teeth, leading to tooth decay. Different types of bacteria are involved in this process that can lead to an infection in the inside of the tooth.

What are the symptoms of a toothache?
The following are the most common symptoms of a toothache. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
constant, throbbing pain in a tooth
a tooth is painful to touch
pain in the tooth that worsens with hot or cold foods or liquids
the jaw in the area of the tooth that is sore and tender to touch
fever
malaise (generally tired and feeling badly)