Toothaches are your body’s way of signaling that something isn’t quite right with your oral health. While some tooth pain can be caused by temporary sensitivity, other types may indicate serious underlying issues. Here’s a breakdown of common causes of toothaches and when it’s time to book an appointment with your dentist.
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
- What It Could Mean: Sensitivity to temperature changes is often due to worn enamel or receding gums, which expose the dentin layer of the tooth. It may also indicate early signs of tooth decay or a cracked tooth.
- When to See a Dentist: If the sensitivity persists or worsens over time, it’s worth getting checked. A dentist can apply fluoride treatments or sealants to protect the tooth.
Sharp, Intermittent Pain
- What It Could Mean: Sudden, sharp pain could be caused by a cavity, a loose filling, or a minor fracture in the tooth. It’s often triggered by biting or chewing.
- When to See a Dentist: If the pain becomes frequent or affects your ability to eat comfortably, schedule an appointment to address the issue.
Dull, Aching Pain
- What It Could Mean: Persistent, dull pain may be linked to tooth decay, gum disease, or clenching and grinding your teeth (bruxism). In some cases, it can radiate from sinus pressure during colds or allergies.
- When to See a Dentist: Visit your dentist if the ache doesn’t subside within a few days, especially if accompanied by swelling or a bad taste in your mouth.
Throbbing Pain or Swelling
- What It Could Mean: Throbbing pain, particularly with swelling in the gums or face, is often a sign of an infection or abscess. These can occur when decay reaches the tooth’s pulp or from untreated gum disease.
- When to See a Dentist: This is a dental emergency. Left untreated, an abscess can spread the infection to other parts of the body. Seek immediate care.
Pain When Chewing
- What It Could Mean: Pain during chewing could point to a cracked tooth, cavity, or an issue with the bite alignment. It might also be related to inflamed pulp or an infection.
- When to See a Dentist: Don’t ignore chewing pain, as it can worsen without treatment.
Pain After Dental Work
- What It Could Mean: Some sensitivity after a filling or crown placement is normal. However, prolonged pain may suggest a high filling, irritation to the pulp, or an incomplete procedure.
- When to See a Dentist: Contact your dentist if the discomfort doesn’t subside within a week or worsens over time.
Radiating Pain in the Jaw
- What It Could Mean: Pain that seems to spread to your jaw or ear may indicate a severe infection, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, or even an impacted wisdom tooth.
- When to See a Dentist: Prompt evaluation is essential to determine the exact cause and prevent complications.
Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
If you experience any of the following along with your toothache, seek immediate dental care:
- Fever
- Swelling in the face or neck
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Severe, persistent pain
Final Thoughts
Toothaches are not just an inconvenience—they’re a sign that your mouth needs attention. Regular dental visits can catch potential problems early and prevent them from escalating into more significant issues. Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable—your smile (and health) will thank you.
