Why Do All My Teeth Hurt Suddenly? 

Dealing with your dental scares is one thing but when your child is wailing, “Why do all my teeth hurt suddenly?” you want answers and relief for them. 

Below are some of the most common factors affecting sudden tooth pain.

The Top Five Reasons for Sudden Tooth Pain

Insufficient Oral Hygiene

Not brushing regularly with good toothpaste leaves food residue on teeth. Sugar, bits of pasta, and bread crumbs become food for bacteria on teeth, releasing acid that damages the enamel.

The diet also plays a role in oral hygiene. The acid and sugar in most sodas cause trouble for tooth enamel. If the enamel wears to expose the dentin, the tiny nerves running through it scream in pain when you put something very hot or cold into your mouth. Bacteria in the mouth can also attack the gums, causing them to recede over time and expose the dentin.

Overenthusiastic Oral Hygiene

What if you have been brushing regularly? Using a too-stiff brush or aggressive whitening toothpaste can damage the enamel and gums, too.  If you are wondering, “Why do all my teeth hurt suddenly?” when brushing and flossing, it may be time to switch to a gentler toothpaste and softer brush. Professional tooth cleaning can also result in temporary tenderness, though this usually fades by the following day.

Trapped Food

Small tooth gaps can trap fibers of meat or fruit, putting pressure on the sensitive nerves in the gums. The pain can be surprisingly intense. Most of the time, the discomfort will ease once the offending particles have been removed.

Infection

When the dentin is exposed – even in a tiny patch – bacteria get into it and cause decay inside. A tooth can be rotten but not show apparent signs on the outside. If left untreated, this can cause a severe infection, with an abscess (a collection of pus) under the tooth. Tooth infections are excruciating. A child complaining of severe or throbbing pain is a sign to get to a dentist’s office immediately – particularly if they also have a terrible headache, swollen cheeks, and blood or pus from the tooth.

Sinus infections can also put pressure on teeth. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and allergens such as dust and pollen.

Injury

From roughhousing with friends to running around the house with socks on, kids find endless daily opportunities to pick up a boo-boo or two. Bumps to the face can chip, crack, and even break teeth even if you can’t see damage, that not-so-little injury can hurt a whole mouth.

Getting head and face injuries professionally evaluated is always a good idea to ensure everything is okay.

Final Thoughts

If you or a loved one is experiencing unexplained sudden tooth pain, it is essential to take action before the problem worsens. Schedule a dentist’s appointment for a professional evaluation right away.