Tooth pain can range from mildly annoying to completely debilitating. But not all discomfort requires an emergency dental visit. Understanding the difference between normal sensitivity and signs of a serious issue can help you act at the right time — and potentially save a tooth.
Common Causes of Tooth Pain
Tooth pain can come from a variety of sources, including:
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Cavities
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Gum recession
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Cracked or broken teeth
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Infections or abscesses
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Impacted wisdom teeth
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Teeth grinding (bruxism)
While some of these conditions can wait for your next appointment, others require immediate attention.
When You Should See a Dentist Immediately
If you’re experiencing any of the following, don’t wait:
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Persistent, throbbing pain that doesn’t go away
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Swelling in the face or gums
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Fever or a bad taste in the mouth
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A cracked or broken tooth
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Severe sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
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Bleeding or pus near a tooth
These symptoms could indicate an infection or structural damage that needs urgent care. Delaying treatment may result in further complications, including the need for extraction.
When It’s Okay to Wait
Some types of discomfort are not emergencies but should still be monitored:
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Mild sensitivity to hot or cold
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Occasional dull aches, especially after chewing hard foods
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Pain from recent dental work (lasting less than a week)
In these cases, keep the area clean, avoid extreme temperatures, and schedule an appointment within a few days.
What You Can Do at Home
If you can’t get to a dentist immediately, here are a few things that may help in the short term:
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Rinse with warm saltwater to reduce inflammation
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Take over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen
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Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
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Avoid chewing on the painful side
These are temporary solutions. Pain that lingers or worsens should not be ignored.
Final Thoughts
Tooth pain is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. Whether it’s a minor issue or something more serious, the sooner you get it checked, the better the outcome.
Experiencing tooth pain?
Contact PureDental today — we offer both routine and emergency appointments to get you relief fast.