Common Causes of Toothaches

• Tooth decay (cavity) that has reached the inner layers of the tooth
• Cracked or fractured tooth
• Dental abscess (infection at the root of the tooth)
• Gum disease causing bone loss and root exposure
• Exposed tooth root from receding gums
• Damaged or lost filling
• Impacted wisdom tooth
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) causing jaw and tooth pain

Types of Tooth Pain and What They Mean

Sharp pain when biting: May indicate a cracked tooth or loose filling. Lingering sensitivity to cold: May indicate early pulp damage. Sensitivity to heat: Often indicates pulp infection — may need root canal. Spontaneous, throbbing pain: Likely indicates pulp infection or abscess. Pain with swelling: Indicates infection — seek care immediately.

Home Remedies While You Wait

Rinse with warm salt water. Take over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen is most effective for dental pain). Apply a cold pack to the outside of your face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. Avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods. Do NOT put aspirin directly on the tooth or gum — this can cause a chemical burn.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Call us immediately if you have: severe pain that is not controlled by over-the-counter medication, swelling in the face, jaw, or neck, fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or a pimple or bump on the gum near the painful tooth. These are signs of a serious infection.