That Toothache Might Be More Serious Than You Think
Tooth pain can start off mild—a dull ache, a sharp twinge when eating, or sensitivity to cold drinks. It’s easy to brush it off or hope it goes away on its own. But tooth pain is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. Ignoring it could lead to serious dental issues that affect not just your teeth, but your overall health.
At Ames Dentistry, we encourage patients in Xenia and Wilmington to treat pain seriously. Early intervention is key to preventing complications, reducing costs, and preserving your natural teeth.
Common Causes of Tooth Pain
Cavities and Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is one of the most common reasons for toothaches. As bacteria erode the enamel, they can reach the sensitive inner layers of your tooth, causing pain and sensitivity.
Sensitivity from Enamel Erosion
If your teeth ache when you eat or drink something cold or hot, you may have enamel erosion. This exposes the dentin underneath, which contains tiny nerve pathways.
Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Teeth
Even small cracks can expose nerves or allow bacteria inside the tooth. You may feel pain when biting down or eating.
Tooth Infections and Abscesses
A severe, throbbing pain could be a sign of an abscess—an infection deep in the tooth or gum. These infections require urgent dental care and can spread if left untreated.
Gum Disease and Receding Gums
Gum inflammation or recession can expose tooth roots, making them sensitive and painful, especially when brushing or flossing.
Warning Signs It’s Time to Call a Dentist
Persistent or Throbbing Pain
Have you been wondering, “Why does my tooth hurt for days?” If your pain lasts longer than 24 hours or gets worse over time, it’s not something to brush off. Persistent tooth pain is usually a sign of an underlying dental issue, like deep decay, an infection, or even a damaged nerve. These conditions don’t go away on their own and often progress quickly without treatment. Seeing a dentist early can save your tooth and prevent more invasive procedures later.
Swelling in the Face or Gums
Noticing swelling around your jaw, cheek, or gums? This is a red flag. Swelling can indicate a dental abscess or infection, especially if it’s paired with pain or fever. Dental infections can become dangerous if left untreated—in rare cases, they can spread to other parts of the body. If you’re asking, “Should I go to the dentist for swollen gums?” the answer is yes, especially if the swelling is visible or painful.
Fever, Bad Taste, or Pus Drainage
A bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away or visible pus near the gumline can point to an abscess. Fever, along with these symptoms, usually signals your body is fighting off an infection. Dental abscesses are serious and require prompt treatment. Ignoring them can lead to the infection spreading to your jaw, neck, or bloodstream.
Pain When Biting or Chewing
If you’re asking, “Why does my tooth hurt when I chew?” you may be dealing with a cracked tooth, a loose filling, or even a misaligned bite. Chewing pain can also signal advanced decay or an abscess putting pressure on the tooth root. Either way, pain while eating is not normal and should be checked by a dentist to avoid more damage.
Worsening Pain at Night or While Lying Down
Is your tooth pain keeping you up at night? Pain that gets worse when you lie down often means pressure is building from inflammation or infection inside the tooth. Gravity can cause blood to pool in the head when lying flat, increasing pain from inflamed tissues. This type of pain is common in abscesses and pulp infections and should be taken seriously.
Why Waiting Can Make It Worse
Small Issues Can Quickly Become Major Problems
What starts as a tiny cavity can quickly develop into an infection or require a root canal or extraction. Acting early often means simpler treatment.
Ignoring Infections Can Be Dangerous
Oral infections can spread to other parts of the body, including the jaw, neck, and even the bloodstream. Treating infections promptly is critical.
Delays Often Mean More Expensive Treatment
The longer you wait, the more involved and costly the treatment becomes. Fillings are far less expensive than crowns or implants.
When Tooth Pain Becomes a Dental Emergency
What Qualifies as Urgent vs. Non-Urgent Pain
Tooth pain can range from mildly annoying to alarmingly intense. Understanding the difference between a true dental emergency and something that can wait a day or two is crucial.
Urgent Symptoms That Require Immediate Dental Care
If you experience any of the following, you should call your dentist right away:
- Severe or throbbing tooth pain that interferes with daily activities or sleep
- Swelling in your face, gums, or jaw
- Signs of infection such as:
- Pus around the gums
- Fever or chills
- Foul taste or odor in the mouth
- Bleeding from the gums or mouth that doesn’t stop
- Knocked-out, loose, or fractured teeth due to trauma
These symptoms may indicate an abscess, cracked tooth, or advanced infection—and delaying care can lead to complications.
Non-Urgent Symptoms to Monitor
Milder symptoms may not require an emergency appointment, but still deserve evaluation:
- Occasional tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
- Mild, intermittent discomfort that comes and goes
- Slight gum irritation or tenderness
- Pain only when brushing or flossing certain areas
These may be early signs of a cavity, gingivitis, or enamel erosion—and early treatment can prevent bigger problems later.
How Ames Dentistry Can Help
Our Patient-Centered Approach to Diagnosing Pain
We listen to your concerns and use advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the exact cause of your discomfort. Whether it’s decay, trauma, or infection, we’ll develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Fast Relief with Gentle, Effective Treatment
From fillings and crowns to root canals and extractions, we offer a full range of solutions to relieve tooth pain and restore oral health—all delivered with a gentle touch.
Conclusion
Listen to Your Mouth—Get Relief Before It Gets Worse
Tooth pain is never “normal,” and it’s not something you should wait out. Ignoring it can lead to serious health consequences and more invasive treatment. If you’re experiencing discomfort, don’t delay.
Call Ames Dentistry in Xenia at (937) 372-8502 or Wilmington at (937) 382-6971. You can also text us at (855) 559-0201 to schedule an appointment. We’re here to help you feel better—fast.
