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Toothaches: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Updated 4/4/2025

What is a toothache or tooth pain?

A toothache is pain that originates in or around a tooth. The discomfort typically occurs when the sensitive nerves inside the tooth—known as the dental pulp—are irritated, inflamed, or infected. This inflammation can stem from cavities, injuries, infections, or even stress-related behaviors like teeth grinding.

While some minor pain can resolve on its own, persistent or severe toothaches are often a sign that something more serious is going on.

woman holding her cheek due to tooth ache

What are the symptoms of a toothache?

Toothaches are often characterized by one or more of the following symptoms:

Toothache symptoms can vary widely. You may notice:

  • A dull, throbbing ache that sticks around throughout the day
  • Sudden, sharp pain when biting or chewing
  • Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages
  • Swelling of the gums or jaw
  • Headache or fever
  • A bad taste or foul odor from your mouth, especially if there’s an infection

 

These symptoms may come and go or become progressively worse if not treated. If you experience swelling or fever, that could be a sign of an abscess, which needs prompt medical attention.

What Causes Toothaches?

Tooth pain, or toothaches, can arise from various causes, including improper tooth development in young children, minor injuries such as biting into a hard object or aggressive flossing, as well as more severe underlying conditions.

Painful or sensitive teeth can be the result of tooth fractures, periodontal disease, or dental decay.

Causes of toothaches may include:

  • Tooth Decay. Tooth decay is the most common reason for a painful toothache. However, for the tooth and the surrounding area to be in pain, the tooth decay would need to be significant enough to reach the inner layer of the tooth (the dentin). When this has happened, the tooth becomes very sensitive and a cavity has formed.
  • Abscessed Tooth. When tooth decay advances to the point of affecting the root beneath the visible part of the tooth, there’s a high probability that the root and the surrounding tissue have become infected, resulting in widespread, pulsating pain.
  • Tooth Fracture. Teeth can be cracked or chipped in many different ways. If you’re experiencing pain in a fractured tooth, the fracture has made its way to the middle of the tooth where the nerve endings are. Note that this may not happen as soon as the tooth is damaged, but can develop over time as the damage becomes worse.
  • Damaged Filling. A dental filling protects vulnerable parts of a tooth and, when it becomes damaged, the sensitive parts of the tooth are exposed to extreme temperatures, food particles, and bacteria. This can result in pain that can be anywhere from dull to sharp.
  • Grinding Teeth. Teeth grinding is a common cause of tooth pain and can lead to sore jaw bones and joints, headaches, and even cracked or chipped teeth.

  • Gum Disease (Periodontitis). Inflamed gums and receding gumlines can expose tooth roots, leading to pain and sensitivity. Sometimes tooth pain isn’t even caused by a dental issue. Problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), sinus infections, or earaches can cause referred pain that feels like a toothache.

Toothaches can also result from the loss of a tooth, such as after an extraction, when the nerves of surrounding teeth have been jarred or exposed.

Sometimes tooth pain is pain from other areas that have radiated to the jaw, where it seems to be a toothache. Ear pain, sinuses, and the temporomandibular joint—or jaw joint—can all develop pain that, over time, may seem to originate at the tooth.

How Long Will a Toothache Last?

Minor toothaches caused by temporary irritation—such as brushing too hard—may fade within a day or two. But more often, toothaches caused by decay or infection will continue or get worse without treatment.

Even if the pain subsides on its own, the underlying issue may still be progressing. For example, infection in the tooth pulp may kill the nerve, momentarily relieving pain—while the infection continues to spread.

When in doubt, it’s always best to have your symptoms evaluated by a dental professional.

When should I be worried about my tooth pain or toothache?

You should schedule a dental appointment if:

  • Your toothache lasts longer than 1–2 days

  • The pain is intense, spreading, or interfering with eating and sleeping

  • You notice swelling, pus, or a bad taste in your mouth

  • Over-the-counter medications aren’t helping

  • You also have a fever, earache, or pain when opening your mouth

Ignoring tooth pain can allow decay or infection to spread, sometimes requiring more invasive—and costly—treatment down the line.

How is toothache treated?

The right treatment depends on the cause. Your dentist will perform a thorough exam and take X-rays if necessary to diagnose the issue.

Common treatments include:

  • Fillings for cavities

  • Root canals for infected pulp

  • Crowns to restore cracked or weakened teeth

  • Extractions for teeth that can’t be saved

  • Antibiotics to treat or prevent the spread of infection

  • Mouthguards to protect teeth from grinding

For temporary relief at home, try rinsing with warm saltwater, applying a cold compress, and using over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Treating Toothaches and Tooth Pain with Dental Depot

Don’t let toothaches or tooth pain keep you down. Dental Depot DFW makes getting the dental care you need fast, easy, and convenient with four metro locations, flexible scheduling, and Saturday appointments. From routine dental cleanings and checkups to emergency dental care, Dental Depot DFW’s caring and professional staff  in Dallas, Lewisville, Aubrey, The Colony, McKinney, Arlington, and Highland Village are ready to help. Find your nearest location or schedule your appointment today.

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