Common Causes of Toothache Pain: When to Call Your Dentist for Emergency Care

Toothaches can ruin your day, making it hard to eat, talk, or even concentrate. Pain can range from mild unease to an unbearable throb that keeps you up at night. But when does a toothache signal a real emergency? Understanding the cause can help you decide when to wait and when to call for immediate care.

1. Tooth Decay and Cavities

One of the primary reasons for toothache is tooth decay. Plaque and bacteria left on the teeth gradually wear down the enamel, causing cavities to form.

Signs of serious decay include:

• Sharp pain when eating or drinking
• Sensitivity to sweets
• Tooth showing visible holes or dark spots
• Persistent toothache without a clear cause

Once decay reaches the inner layers of your tooth, the pain becomes more intense. This is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. If the discomfort lingers, it’s time to visit a dentist near you before the damage gets worse.

2. Gum Infections and Abscesses

A swollen, painful gumline could be a sign of infection. When bacteria get trapped under the gum, they can cause inflammation and even form an abscess—a pocket of pus that leads to severe pain and swelling.

Warning signs of a gum infection:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Pain that spreads or travels to the jaw or ear
• A pimple-like bump on the gum
• Bad taste or foul breath

An abscess won’t go away on its own. Untreated infections have the potential to spread beyond the affected area. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek help from a dentist in SW Portland immediately.

3. Cracked or Fractured Teeth

A crack in your tooth might not be visible, but you’ll definitely feel it. Biting down on something hard, grinding your teeth, or experiencing trauma can cause fractures that expose the sensitive inner layers of your tooth.

Signs your tooth may be cracked:

• Pain when biting or chewing
• Sensitivity to temperature changes
• Sudden, sharp pain that comes and goes

Not all cracks cause immediate pain, but they can lead to serious issues if bacteria enter the fracture. If you think you might have a cracked tooth, avoid chewing on that side and visit a specialist for dental implants in Portland to prevent further damage.

4. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

A sudden zing when sipping coffee or eating ice cream isn’t just an annoyance—it could be a sign of worn enamel, gum recession, or an underlying dental issue.

Common causes of tooth sensitivity:

• Brushing too hard leads to gum recession
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Untreated cavities or exposed roots

Mild sensitivity might be manageable with desensitizing toothpaste, but if the pain lingers or worsens, it’s best to visit an emergency dentist in SW Portland to rule out serious problems.

5. Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth don’t always come in smoothly. If they don’t have enough room, they can become impacted—stuck under the gum or pressing against other teeth. This can pave the way to pain, swelling, and even infection.

Signs of an impacted wisdom tooth:

• Pain or pressure at the back of the mouth
• Swollen, red, or tender gums
• Difficulty opening your mouth

If your wisdom teeth are causing unease, your dentist may recommend removal. Delaying treatment can lead to crowding or infection, so don’t ignore the pain.

6. Loose or Lost Fillings and Crowns

If you’ve ever had a filling or crown, you know they’re meant to protect your tooth. But over time, they can loosen or fall out, exposing the sensitive nerve underneath.

What to do if you lose a filling or crown:

• Avoid chewing on the affected side
• Use dental wax or sugar-free gum to cover the exposed area temporarily
• Call your cosmetic dentist in Portland for a replacement

Ignoring a lost filling can lead to further decay or infection, so don’t wait too long to have it repaired.

7. Sinus Infections and Tooth Pain

Sometimes, tooth pain isn’t a dental problem at all. Sinus infections can create pressure in the upper jaw, making it feel like your teeth are aching.

How to tell if it’s sinus-related:

• Pain is focused on the upper molars
• Your nose is stuffy or runny
• Pain gets worse when you bend over

If your pain is linked to congestion, treating the sinus infection should relieve the discomfort. However, if the pain persists, check with a dental office to rule out any dental issues.

8. When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

Not all toothaches require urgent attention, but some signs mean you shouldn’t wait.

Call a dentist immediately if you have:

• Severe pain that won’t go away
• Swelling in your face or gums
• A high fever along with tooth pain
• A knocked-out or broken tooth

Ignoring these symptoms can pave the way to serious complications, including infections that spread beyond the mouth. When in doubt, seek help before the problem worsens.

Final Thoughts

Toothaches can disrupt daily life, but early care prevents bigger problems. Ignoring pain may lead to serious oral health issues. Whether it’s decay, infection, or damage, timely treatment makes all the difference. If discomfort persists, don’t wait—visit Serene Dental for expert care and lasting relief.