Tooth pain has a way of grabbing your attention, but it’s not all the same. In fact, the type of discomfort you’re feeling can actually tell you about what’s going on beneath the surface. Continue reading to find the most common types of tooth pain and see when it’s time to call an emergency dentist.
Sharp Pain When Biting Down
If you feel a sudden, sharp jab when you bite or chew, it could point to a cracked tooth, a loose filling, or decay that has reached a sensitive part of the tooth. A cracked tooth in particular can be tricky to diagnose because it doesn’t always show up on an X-ray—but your dentist can often find it during an exam.
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
A quick, sharp “zing” when you sip something hot or cold is often a sign of enamel erosion, gum recession, or early-stage decay. If the sensitivity lingers for more than a few seconds after the stimulus is gone, that’s usually a sign that the nerve may be involved.
Dull, Persistent Aching
A constant, nagging ache is one of the most common types of tooth pain (and one of the most annoying). It’s usually a sign of a deep cavity or severe grinding or clenching pressure on your teeth and jaw. However, it can also sometimes come from sinus pressure. If you’re not stuffy and the ache doesn’t go away within a day or two, it’s worth getting checked out.
Throbbing or Pulsating Pain
Throbbing tooth pain that comes in waves is often a sign of infection or abscess—a bacterial infection at the root of the tooth or in the surrounding gum tissue. This type of pain can be intense and is sometimes accompanied by swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth. A dental abscess is a serious dental emergency and should be treated as soon as possible.
Pain or Pressure in Multiple Teeth
If several teeth are aching at once without a clear cause, grinding or clenching is often the culprit. Bruxism puts damaging pressure on your smile, leading to soreness, headaches, and worn enamel over time. The most common solution for this is a nightguard from your dentist, which can help protect your teeth while you sleep.
So, when should you call your dentist? Sooner rather than later. Your body is trying to tell you something’s wrong, so it’s best to not ignore it. Even if the pain comes and goes, it rarely fixes itself on its own, and waiting usually means more pain and more cost.
About The Author
Dr. Tracy Morales earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. Never satisfied with “good enough,” she continues to grow through active membership in multiple professional organizations. Today, she has over a decade of experience providing compassionate, comprehensive dental care to patients in Fort Worth. Call (817) 214-3333 to schedule your visit at Everlasting Dentistry or visit our website to discover other services.
