Toothache
Toothache is often a sign of a bigger problem with your teeth or gums. Come see us as soon as possible to prevent the problem from getting worse.
Pain can present itself in different ways. You may experience a dull, stabbing pain in the tooth, sharp pains when eating or drinking, or swelling in the affected area. The pain may be persistent or come and go. Symptoms may also include headache or fever.
If the pain goes away on its own, that doesn't mean the problem has resolved itself. Toothaches often return and are almost always a symptom of a problem that the dentist will need to address.
Why do you need to see your dentist?
In many cases, toothaches are just a symptom of a larger problem that can worsen if left untreated. They don't usually go away on their own. The longer you put off visiting your dentist, the more serious the problem could become.
When you come in to see us, we'll examine your mouth to determine the cause of your pain and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your case. This may involve a filling, root canal treatment, or gum treatment. We may even need to extract the tooth to prevent further problems. We'll assess your pain and explain your treatment options.
If you experience discomfort, schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible. Leaving a toothache unresolved can lead to infection or cause irreparable damage to your teeth.
Make an appointment with us if:
- You experience toothache for two or more days.
- You have severe discomfort or pain.
- You notice pain in your ear, you have a fever, or you feel discomfort when opening your mouth.
How can tooth pain be relieved?
If you can't get to the dentist right away, take painkillers and anti-inflammatories to relieve discomfort.
You can also try gargling with salt water or a warm thyme infusion. Salt water helps eliminate bacteria from your mouth and can reduce swelling. Add about half a teaspoon of salt to warm water and gargle for at least five seconds. Be careful not to swallow the water.
Applying cold can help numb the pain. Place a cold compress or ice pack against your cheek. Do not apply ice directly to the tooth, as toothaches often cause increased sensitivity to temperature.
What causes toothache?
The most common causes of tooth pain include:
- Cavities: If biofilm erodes the enamel surface of your tooth, this can expose sensitive nerve endings within the underlying tooth structure (dentin) and may continue to infiltrate into the center of the tooth (the pulp).
- Gum disease: If biofilm remains under the gums, it can damage the bone that supports the teeth and also the roots of the teeth. This causes teeth to shift and become painful.
- Abscesses: Tooth decay and gum disease can cause an abscess to form under or next to the root of the tooth, causing pain and spreading infection.
- Trauma: If the tooth is chipped or cracked, this can also expose the pulp and put you at risk for infection.
- Impaction: If a tooth doesn't fully erupt, it can irritate the surrounding tissues and cause pain. This is most common with wisdom teeth and other molars.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): If you grind your teeth at night or during the day, this causes your teeth to wear down over time, exposing their sensitive middle layers, and it can also strain the muscles in your face.
The dental pain is usually a symptom of a more serious problem, so it is important that you contact us as soon as possible.
How can toothache be prevented?
Most cases of toothache can be prevented. To keep your teeth and gums healthy, be sure to brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day and floss at least once a day.
It's also important to visit your dentist or hygienist regularly. Dental checkups can remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas and below the gum line, helping to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
