A toothache can range from a mild, temporary discomfort to an intense, throbbing pain that keeps you up at night. While some tooth pain may go away on its own, other times it’s a sign that something more serious is happening beneath the surface. Understanding when to take action can help you prevent complications and protect your smile.

Common Causes of Toothaches

Toothaches can be caused by a variety of dental issues, including:

• Tooth Decay: Cavities are one of the most common causes of tooth pain. When decay reaches the inner layer of your tooth, it can cause sensitivity and sharp pain.

• Gum Disease: Inflamed or infected gums can make your teeth sore and even lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

• Cracked or Damaged Teeth: A chip, crack, or break can expose sensitive layers of your tooth, causing pain when eating or drinking.

• Dental Abscess: This infection occurs when bacteria enter the pulp of the tooth, leading to swelling, severe pain, and sometimes fever or a bad taste in your mouth.

• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Chronic grinding or clenching can wear down enamel and lead to persistent discomfort.

Signs Your Toothache May Be Serious

While not all toothaches are emergencies, certain symptoms indicate you should see your dentist as soon as possible:

• Severe or constant pain that doesn’t go away

• Swelling in your face, jaw, or gums

• Fever or general feeling of illness

• A pimple-like bump on your gums

• Pain when biting or chewing

• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
If you experience any of these symptoms, your body may be signaling a deeper infection or dental issue that requires professional care.

What to Do Before Your Appointment

While waiting to see your dentist, you can try to ease the pain by:

• Rinsing with warm salt water to reduce bacteria and inflammation

• Avoiding extremely hot, cold, or sugary foods

• Keeping the area clean with gentle brushing and flossing

These steps may offer temporary relief but won’t treat the underlying cause - only a professional exam can determine the best course of treatment.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

If your pain is severe, swelling spreads to your jaw or neck, or you have trouble breathing or swallowing, seek emergency dental or medical care immediately. These can be signs of a serious infection that needs urgent attention.

Partner with Dr. Sam’s Premier Dentistry for Emergency Dental Care

Tooth pain should never be ignored. Even minor discomfort can signal an underlying problem that could worsen without treatment. Acting early not only relieves pain faster but also helps preserve your natural teeth.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, don’t wait for it to get worse. Contact Dr. Sam’s Premier Dentistry to schedule your dental exam and get the relief you need. Visit our office in Sherman, Texas, or call (903) 708-6400 today