Why Does My Tooth Hurt? Understanding, Treating, and Preventing Tooth Pain

Tooth pain is something most of us experience. Whether it’s slight discomfort when drinking something cold or a more intense, persistent pain, it can feel overwhelming. The good news is that tooth pain is often manageable, and by understanding its causes, you can take action to find relief and prevent future issues.

In this guide, we’ll break down common types of tooth pain, help you identify what might be causing it, and share some simple steps you can take to relieve discomfort.

Types of Tooth Pain

Tooth pain can vary in intensity, duration, and cause. It typically falls into one of three categories:

• Tooth sensitivity
  
• Mild toothaches
  
• Severe pain
  

Identifying which type of pain you’re experiencing can help determine what to do next.

1. Tooth Sensitivity

What It Feels Like:
Tooth sensitivity is the most common and least severe type of tooth pain. It often feels like a quick, sharp discomfort, usually triggered by hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. You might notice this when you’re eating ice cream, drinking hot coffee, or brushing your teeth.

Note from our Clinical Team:  If hot foods or drinks are bothering your teeth for more than a few seconds, it could be a sign of something more serious, like an infection or dead tooth.

Sensitivity toothpaste may take the edge off, but it won’t fix the real issue if there’s one hiding underneath. That’s why it’s important to reach out to your dentist if the sensitivity lingers. Getting checked early can help you avoid bigger problems later.

Cause:
To understand sensitivity, think of your tooth like an onion with layers. The outer layer is the enamel, which is the hardest substance in your body. Beneath it lies a soft layer called dentin. When enamel is worn down or damaged, the dentin can become exposed, this triggers sensitivity because the dentin is a softer more vulnerable layer of the tooth.

Common Causes of Sensitivity:

• Tiny areas of decay
  
• Loose or old fillings
  
• Small amount of gum recession, exposing the roots of the teeth
  

Treatment & Prevention:

• Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Gentle brushing prevents further enamel wear and tear.
  
• Desensitizing Toothpaste: Special toothpastes help block the pain signals traveling from the exposed dentin to your nerves.
  
• Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride strengthens the enamel, helping protect sensitive areas.
  

2. Mild Toothache

What It Feels Like:
A mild toothache usually involves a constant, dull ache that may get worse when chewing or touching the tooth. You might notice some swelling around the tooth, or even see visible signs of damage, like a small hole or dark spot.

Cause:
A mild toothache is often a sign of a cavity (tooth decay), grinding your teeth at night, or even a loose filling. These issues tend to be less urgent than severe pain, but they still require attention by a dentist to prevent further damage.

Common Causes of a Mild Toothache:

• Cavities (decay)
  
• Teeth grinding or clenching (often linked to stress or sleep problems)
  
• A loose or broken filling
  

Treatment & Prevention:

• Floss Around the Tooth: Sometimes food or debris gets stuck between your teeth, which can cause irritation.
  
• Cold Compress: Apply an ice pack on the outside of your jaw to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
  
• Non-Prescription Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide temporary relief.
  
• Salt Water Rinsing: Dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and swishing it around your mouth can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
  

3. Severe Tooth Pain

What It Feels Like:
Severe tooth pain is intense and often constant. It might feel like throbbing pain, pressure, or a sharp ache that doesn’t subside. You may also notice swelling in the gums, and in some cases, an abscess or pus-filled sac may form near the affected tooth. Severe tooth pain often occurs when an issue has reached the deeper layers of the tooth, including the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels.

Cause:
Severe tooth pain typically indicates a significant dental issue that needs urgent care, such as a deep cavity, an abscessed or cracked tooth, or gum disease. This pain should not be ignored, as it can lead to more serious complications if left untreated.

Common Causes of Severe Tooth Pain:

• Advanced tooth decay (cavities that have reached the pulp)
  
• Abscessed or cracked tooth
  
• Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
  

Treatment:

• Fillings: When decay or damage occurs, the dentist will clean out the affected area and fill it with a material like resin or amalgam to restore the tooth’s structure.
  
• Bonding: If your tooth is cracked or chipped, dental bonding uses composite resin to repair the damage and restore the tooth’s appearance.
  
• Root Canal Therapy: If the tooth pulp becomes infected, a root canal may be needed. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further infection.
  
• Tooth Extraction: If a crack or break in the tooth runs too deep, the tooth may not be fixable. In that case, your dentist might recommend removing it to relieve pain and protect your overall oral health.
  

When Should You See a Dentist?

Regardless of the severity of your tooth pain, it’s important to see a dentist. Even if your pain is mild, a dentist can determine the underlying cause and prevent more serious issues down the road. In many cases, what may seem like a small problem can develop into something more complex if left untreated.Signs it’s time to see a dentist:

• Pain lasting more than 2 days
  
• Swelling around the tooth or jaw
  
• Fever or signs of infection
  
• Sensitivity that persists after eating or drinking

How to Prevent Tooth Pain

1. Brush and Floss Daily
Use fluoride toothpaste and clean between teeth once a day to prevent plaque buildup and cavities.

2. Eat a Balanced Diet
Limit sugar and acidic foods. Focus on nutrient-rich options that support strong teeth and gums.

3. Visit the Dentist Twice a Year
Professional cleanings and exams catch issues early.

4. Use a Mouthguard If Needed
Grinding your teeth at night? Ask your dentist about a custom nightguard.

5. Stay Hydrated
Water helps wash away bacteria and food debris that can lead to decay.

When Tooth Pain Signals Something Serious

In some cases, tooth pain can be a warning sign of a more serious issue, such as an underlying medical condition or infection. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to consult with a dentist or healthcare provider right away:

• Pain lasting more than a few days
  
• Intense throbbing or aching
  
• Swelling in the face or jaw
  
• Fever or overall fatigue
  
• Lingering sensitivity after eating/drinking
  

You Don’t Have to Live with Tooth Pain

Tooth pain can be frustrating, but understanding the cause and knowing what to do about it can help you take control of your oral health. Schedule a virtual consult with one of our dentists and get personalized recommendations you can trust.