A toothache is a sharp, throbbing reminder that something is wrong. It sometimes starts as a dull ache when you bite down. Or a sudden jolt when you sip hot coffee. Some pain fades while some lingers, keeping you up at night.
Toothaches don’t happen for no reason. A cavity, gum infection, or even a cracked tooth could be behind it. Ignoring the pain won’t make it go away. In fact, it usually gets worse. That’s why knowing what causes toothaches and how to stop them matters.
If you’re looking for relief, you’re in the right place. Let’s walk you through what’s causing your pain, how to manage it at home, and when to see a dental specialist. If the problem keeps coming back, we’ll also show you why dental implants might be the best fix. Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- Toothaches don’t go away on their own. The pain means something is wrong.
- Cavities, infections, and gum disease are common causes of toothaches.
- Home remedies like saltwater rinses and pain relievers can help, but they’re not a cure.
- See a dental specialist if the pain lasts more than two days or gets worse.
- Common treatments for tooth pain include fillings, root canals, and extractions, while dental implants offer a long-term solution for missing or failing teeth.
- Avoiding sugary foods and brushing daily helps prevent toothaches.
- NuSet Dental Implants and Oral Surgery can help with expert care and permanent solutions.
What Causes a Toothache?
Tooth pain happens for a reason. Some issues are minor, but others need quick treatment. Here’s what could be causing your toothache:
Cavities (Tooth Decay)
Cavities start small, but they don’t stay that way. At first, you may feel a little sensitive when eating something sweet. Over time, the decay digs deeper, reaching the nerve. If left untreated, the tooth can break or get infected. A simple filling can fix a small cavity, but deep decay may need a root canal or even removal.
Gum Disease (Gingivitis & Periodontitis)
Healthy gums hold the teeth in place. When they get infected, they start pulling away. You might notice bleeding when brushing or bad breath that won’t go away. As the infection worsens, gums recede, exposing sensitive roots. In more severe cases, teeth can loosen or fall out. Regular deep cleanings can stop early gum disease, but if the gum disease has advanced to a more severe case, surgery may be the best course of action. A dental specialist will be able to assess your needs and determine the best treatment approach for you and your dental health.
Dental Abscess (Severe Infection)
An abscess is a pocket of fluid caused by infection and can form at the tip of the root or along the gumline. The pain can be intense, with some saying the pulsing, spreading, and impossible to ignore sensations is some of the worst pain they’ve felt. Swelling in the jaw or face is common, and sometimes it is accompanied with a bad taste in the mouth. If you ignore it or go too long without treatment the infection can spread, leading to serious health risks.
Cracked or Damaged Teeth
A small crack might not seem like a big deal at first. But once it reaches the nerve the pain will be difficult to ignore. Then, even a sip of water can cause sharp pain. Some cracks are invisible but still cause discomfort when chewing or even just going about your day. A dental specialist can seal minor cracks, but deep fractures may require a crown or extraction.
Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding your teeth, especially at night, wears them down. Over time, it exposes the sensitive inner layers. This can cause dull, constant pain or sharp discomfort when eating. Many people don’t even realize they grind their teeth until their dentist points it out. A custom nightguard can help protect your teeth from damage.
Failed or Loose Dental Work
Fillings, crowns, and bridges don’t last forever. If one becomes loose or falls out, the exposed tooth can hurt. If a dental implant isn’t placed correctly, it may cause discomfort, too. Regular check-ups help catch these issues early.
Sinus Infections and Other Causes
Sometimes, tooth pain isn’t about the tooth at all. A sinus infection can put pressure on the upper molars, making them ache. Ear infections, nerve pain, or even stress can also mimic a toothache. If your pain comes and goes or affects multiple teeth, it may be a sinus infection.
Common Symptoms of a Toothache
A toothache comes with warning signs. Some are easy to ignore at first. Others demand attention. Here’s what to watch for:
- A dull ache or sharp sting that doesn’t go away.
- Pain when drinking coffee, eating ice cream or sweets.
- Red, puffy gums or swelling around your jaw.
- A lingering foul taste or smell, even after brushing.
- Fever or headache, which could indicate signs of a spreading infection.
- Sharp discomfort when biting down.
- A tooth that feels wobbly or moves slightly.
Best Toothache Pain Relief Methods
While seeing a dental specialist is the best fix, there are ways to ease the pain in the meantime. Here’s what works:
- Take over-the-counter meds like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
- Rinse with warm saltwater to reduce swelling. Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Wrap a bag of ice or frozen peas in a cloth and hold it against your cheek for 15 minutes.
- Dip a cotton ball in clove oil and gently dab it on the sore tooth or gum. It may sting at first, but it can help to dull the pain.
- Stay away from hot, cold, or sugary foods. They can make the pain worse. Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Keep your head elevated by propping yourself up with pillows when resting. This helps reduce pressure and throbbing.
Professional Toothache Treatments
Home remedies only buy you time. If the pain keeps coming back, you need to visit the dental clinic. The right treatment depends on what’s causing the pain. Here’s what they might do:
Fillings for Cavities
A small cavity can be filled in one visit. The dental specialist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills it with a strong material like composite or metal. This stops the pain and keeps the cavity from getting worse.
Root Canal Therapy
If decay reaches the nerve, a filling won’t cut it. A root canal removes the infected pulp inside the tooth, cleans the area, and seals it. This saves the tooth and stops the pain for good. Despite what people say, modern root canals are not painful; they actually relieve pain.
Tooth Extraction
Sometimes, a tooth is too damaged to fix. If it’s cracked beyond repair, deeply infected, or loose from gum disease, pulling it might be the best option. The good news is that there are replacements that look and feel just like real teeth.
Dental Implants for Missing or Failing Teeth
If a tooth is beyond saving, a dental implant is the best long-term fix. Implants look, feel, and function like real teeth. Unlike other restoration methods, they don’t move or need special care. At NuSet Dental Implants and Oral Surgery, we specialize in restoring smiles with implants that provide long term stability for your oral health.
Let Us Help You Stop the Pain And Fix Your Smile for Good!
Toothache won’t go away on its own. The longer you wait, the worse it gets. But you don’t have to suffer. NuSet Dental Implants and Oral Surgery has the expertise to fix the problem and restore your smile.
Our team doesn’t just treat toothaches, we solve them for good. If decay is the issue, we can fill cavities or perform a root canal to save the tooth. If the damage is too severe, we offer gentle extractions with minimal discomfort. For patients who have missing or failing teeth, dental implants provide a strong, natural-looking replacement that feels just like a real tooth.
Every treatment is customized. We use advanced technology to assess your condition and recommend the best solution. Whether you need a quick fix or a full-mouth restoration, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Contact us now to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions About
How do I make a toothache go away?
To stop tooth pain, start by rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce swelling. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Use a cold compress on your cheek to numb the area. If the pain is severe or lasts more than two days, see a dentist. Toothaches don’t go away on their own. You may need a filling, root canal, or extraction to fix the problem.
What should I do if my teeth hurt?
If your teeth are aching, avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods that trigger pain. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a sensitive toothpaste to avoid irritation. Take pain relief medication if needed. If the pain is sharp, throbbing, or keeps coming back, schedule a dental appointment. You could have a cavity, gum disease, or a deeper issue that needs professional care.
What is the best medicine for a toothache?
For temporary relief, ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) work best. They help with pain and swelling. Avoid aspirin directly on the tooth—it can burn your gums. If there’s an infection, a dentist may prescribe antibiotics like amoxicillin. But medicine only eases symptoms. A dental specialist needs to treat the root cause to stop the pain for good.
How long can a toothache last?
Mild toothaches may last a few hours or a day, especially if caused by sensitivity or minor irritation. If the pain lasts more than two days, it’s likely a deeper issue like a cavity or infection. Infections won’t go away without treatment and can get worse over time. If your pain is severe or keeps coming back, see a dental specialist as soon as possible.
