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Adult Teeth Basics

Why teeth hurt, cavities, gum bleeding, sensitivity, bad breath.

6 articles

Tooth pain usually comes from a cavity, an inflamed nerve, gum problems, or a cracked tooth.

A cavity is a hole in the tooth caused by acid from bacteria that live in dental plaque.

Bleeding gums usually mean gum inflammation (gingivitis) from plaque and tartar. It is reversible with good cleaning.

Wisdom teeth often hurt because they do not have enough space or come in partly, trapping food and germs.

Sensitivity happens when the layer under the enamel is exposed, often from worn enamel, gum recession, or a cavity.

Bad breath usually comes from bacteria on the tongue, plaque, gum disease, or a cavity — not just from food.