What Do Different Types of Tooth Pain Mean?
Tooth pain can come in many forms — sharp, dull, constant, or only when you eat or drink something specific. While it might be tempting to ignore a minor discomfort, different types of toothache can signal a variety of underlying issues, some of which may require immediate attention. At Dental Lavelle, we believe in helping patients understand their symptoms so they can seek timely care and prevent more serious problems. In this post, we’ll break down what different types of tooth pain might mean and how a dentist can treat them — especially when a dental emergency strikes.
1. Sharp, Sudden Tooth Pain
A sudden, stabbing pain in your tooth — especially when biting down — could indicate a cracked tooth, a loose filling, or decay that has reached the nerve. This type of pain might come and go, but if left untreated, it can lead to more serious problems such as infection or tooth loss.
Your dentist will first identify the source of the pain using X-rays and a thorough exam. Depending on the cause, treatment may involve replacing a filling, bonding the tooth, performing a root canal, or placing a crown. If the crack is severe, extraction and replacement (such as a dental implant) may be necessary.
2. Dull, Persistent Ache
A dull, throbbing toothache is often linked to something as simple as food stuck between teeth, but it could also be a sign of more serious issues like tooth decay, gum disease, or even an abscessed tooth. If the pain lingers for more than a day or two, it’s time to see your dentist.
Your dentist will clean the affected area and remove any trapped debris. If decay or infection is the cause, you may need a filling, deep cleaning, or in some cases, a root canal. Over-the-counter pain relievers may offer temporary relief, but professional care is essential for long-term solutions.
3. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
If your teeth sting when you sip a hot coffee or enjoy a cold drink, it may be a sign of enamel erosion, gum recession, or exposed dentin. Sensitivity can also occur after recent dental work, but it should subside within a few days.
We may recommend using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and avoiding acidic foods that wear down enamel. If sensitivity is severe or persistent, your treatment might include fluoride applications, bonding, or covering exposed roots.
4. Pain When Chewing
Pain or pressure while chewing can indicate a number of things, including a cracked tooth, an abscess, or a misaligned bite. This type of pain often signals that the internal structures of the tooth are compromised and need immediate attention.
We will assess whether the issue is structural or infection-based. Depending on the diagnosis, you may need a crown, a bite adjustment, or a root canal. If an abscess is present, draining it and prescribing antibiotics may be the first step, followed by further restorative treatment.
5. Swelling and Throbbing Pain
When a toothache is accompanied by swelling in the jaw or face, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth, it’s likely a dental emergency. These symptoms may indicate an abscessed tooth, which is an infection that requires prompt treatment.
This is not something to wait out. A dental emergency like this often requires immediate intervention. Your dentist may perform a root canal to remove the infection, prescribe antibiotics, or in severe cases, extract the affected tooth. Delaying treatment can allow the infection to spread, which can become dangerous.
6. Pain in the Back of the Jaw
Pain near the back of your mouth could be related to your wisdom teeth. If these teeth are impacted or not coming in properly, they can cause pressure, pain, and swelling. This is particularly common in young adults.
An evaluation by your dentist will determine whether the wisdom teeth need to be extracted. If they’re impacted or causing crowding, removal is usually recommended to prevent future complications.
When Is Tooth Pain a Dental Emergency?
While not all tooth pain qualifies as a dental emergency, some symptoms indicate you need immediate care. Contact your dentist right away if you experience:
- Severe pain that doesn’t go away
- Swelling in the jaw or face
- A knocked-out or broken tooth
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Signs of infection such as fever or pus
Ignoring these symptoms could lead to serious consequences. At Dental Lavelle, we provide urgent care for dental emergencies and offer quick appointments to relieve your pain and address the underlying problem.
Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain — Get Expert Help
Tooth pain is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. Whether it’s a minor sensitivity or a full-blown dental emergency, prompt attention from a skilled dentist can make all the difference in preserving your oral health.
At Dental Lavelle, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized care for every patient — especially when urgent needs arise. Dr. Druthil Belur and our experienced team use advanced diagnostic tools and treatment techniques to identify the cause of your toothache and restore your smile with comfort and confidence.
If you’re experiencing any type of tooth pain, don’t wait. Contact Dental Lavelle in Bengaluru today to schedule an exam or get help with a dental emergency. Your health — and your smile — are worth it.
