Common Causes of Tooth Pain
Tooth pain can have several causes, each requiring a different treatment approach.
- ✓Tooth decay (cavities) — the most common cause
- ✓Cracked or chipped tooth
- ✓Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
- ✓Tooth abscess (infected tooth root)
- ✓Damaged filling
- ✓Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- ✓Impacted wisdom tooth
Symptoms That Need Immediate Attention
Some symptoms indicate an urgent dental issue.
- ✓Severe, persistent toothache that doesn't go away
- ✓Swelling in the face, cheek, or jaw
- ✓Fever along with tooth pain
- ✓Pain when biting or chewing
- ✓Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
- ✓Pus or bad taste near a tooth
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause identified by your dentist.
- ✓Cavity filling for tooth decay
- ✓Root canal treatment for infected pulp
- ✓Tooth extraction for severely damaged teeth
- ✓Antibiotics for dental abscess
- ✓Crown placement for cracked teeth
- ✓Night guard for teeth grinding
When to See a Dentist
Do not wait if your tooth pain has lasted more than one to two days, is severe, or is accompanied by swelling or fever. These signs often indicate infection that can spread if untreated. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take painkillers and wait instead of visiting a dentist?
Painkillers provide temporary relief but do not treat the cause. Tooth infections can worsen quickly, so visiting a dentist promptly is always the right approach.
What will a dentist do for tooth pain?
The dentist will examine the tooth, possibly take an X-ray, identify the cause, and recommend treatment — which may be a filling, root canal, or extraction depending on the severity.
Is tooth pain always a sign of a cavity?
No. Tooth pain can come from gum disease, cracked teeth, abscesses, grinding, or even sinus issues. A dentist can diagnose the actual cause.