What Is a Toothache?
Tooth pain can feel sharp, throbbing, dull, or constant and may worsen when eating, drinking, or touching the area. It can affect a single tooth or radiate through the jaw, ear, or head. While some cases are caused by minor irritation, many toothaches are a sign of an underlying issue such as decay, infection, or trauma. Left untreated, a toothache can lead to more serious complications, so it’s important to seek dental care as soon as symptoms appear.
Toothache Symptoms to Watch For
Toothache symptoms can vary, but they often point to an underlying dental issue that needs professional care. Common signs include:
- Persistent or throbbing pain in one or more teeth
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Swelling around the tooth, gums, or jaw
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Fever or headache linked to dental discomfort
- Foul taste or smell in the mouth, which may indicate an abscess
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, book an appointment with a trusted dentist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can prevent more serious problems and help relieve pain quickly.
What Causes Toothache?
- Tooth decay Cavities expose the tooth’s inner layers, causing nerve irritation.
- Dental infection or abscess Bacteria lead to painful swelling and pus buildup near the tooth root.
- Cracked or chipped tooth Damage exposes the inner tooth or allows bacteria in, causing pain or infection.
- Gum disease Inflamed gums can create discomfort or pain near affected teeth.
- Impacted wisdom tooth Misaligned or partially erupted wisdom teeth put pressure on nearby teeth.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) Clenching or grinding wears enamel and stresses the tooth nerves.
When to See a Dentist
- Pain lasts longer than 24 – 48 hours
- You have swelling, fever, or trouble opening your mouth
- You’ve had recent dental trauma or ongoing dental issues
- Over-the-counter pain relief isn’t helping
Toothaches don’t resolve on their own. Early treatment prevents infection, protects your natural teeth, and reduces the need for more complex procedures later.
Toothache Treatments at Granite Belt Dental
Fillings
If tooth decay is causing the pain, we’ll remove the damaged area and restore the tooth with a filling. This stops the decay from spreading and relieves discomfort.
Root Canal Therapy
If the inner pulp of the tooth is infected or inflamed, a root canal may be needed. This involves cleaning out the infection, sealing the canal, and preserving the natural tooth.
Emergency Dental Care
For sudden or severe tooth pain, we offer same-day emergency appointments in Stanthorpe and Warwick. We’ll relieve the pain and address the underlying issue as quickly as possible.
Extractions
In cases where the tooth is too damaged to save, we may recommend removing it. We’ll then talk with you about options to restore the gap, such as dental implants or dentures.
Don’t Put Up with Toothache Pain
A toothache is your body’s way of telling you something’s wrong. Book an appointment with Granite Belt Dental in Stanthorpe or Warwick today, and we’ll find the cause and provide fast, effective relief.
