Toothache: Why Does My Tooth Hurt?
Toothache can feel different from person to person. You may notice a sharp pain when biting, sensitivity to hot or cold, a dull ache, throbbing discomfort or pain that comes and goes.
There are many possible causes of tooth pain, and the location of the discomfort does not always tell you exactly where the problem is coming from.
A dental examination can help identify the likely cause and determine what, if any, treatment may be appropriate.
Common Questions
Why does my tooth hurt?
Tooth pain can have several possible causes.
These may include tooth decay, a cracked or damaged tooth, an issue with an existing filling, inflammation around the tooth, gum problems or changes within the tooth itself.
Your dentist will usually consider your symptoms together with a clinical examination and, where appropriate, dental imaging.
Why does my tooth hurt when I bite?
Pain when biting or chewing can sometimes be associated with a cracked tooth, inflammation around the tooth, an existing restoration or other dental conditions.
Because several different problems can cause similar symptoms, an examination is usually needed to understand what is happening.
Why is my tooth sensitive to cold?
Cold sensitivity can occur for a number of reasons, including exposed tooth surfaces, gum recession, tooth wear, decay or changes inside the tooth.
How long the sensitivity lasts and what triggers it can provide useful information when your dentist assesses the tooth.
Why does my tooth hurt at night?
Some people notice tooth pain more strongly at night or when lying down.
The cause can vary, so persistent or recurring pain is best assessed rather than relying on the timing of the discomfort alone to determine what is happening.
Can toothache go away by itself?
Dental pain can sometimes settle temporarily.
However, a reduction in discomfort does not always mean the underlying cause has resolved. If pain persists, returns or becomes more severe, a dental assessment can help determine the cause.
When should toothache be assessed urgently?
Severe or rapidly worsening pain, facial swelling, fever, significant trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, or difficulty swallowing or breathing may require urgent assessment.
Depending on the symptoms and their severity, emergency medical care may also be appropriate.
What will the dentist do?
The first step is usually to understand where the pain is coming from.
Your dentist may examine the tooth and surrounding tissues, ask about your symptoms, test how the tooth responds and check your bite. A dental X-ray may also be recommended where clinically appropriate.
Once the likely cause has been identified, your dentist can explain the findings and discuss the treatment options, alternatives and next steps that may be appropriate for your individual situation.
Understanding the cause comes first
Toothache is a symptom rather than a diagnosis.
At A&M Dental Group, our focus is on helping you understand what may be causing your discomfort. Where appropriate, digital X-rays and chairside images can also help us explain what we can see and discuss the available options with you.