Reviewed by Dr. Tiffany Deaton
|
Reading time: three minutes
Tooth pain can be difficult to ignore. Whether it feels like a dull, persistent ache or a sharp jolt when you eat or drink, tooth pain can quickly disrupt your day. In some cases, it may cause throbbing discomfort that keeps you awake at night and affects your comfort and overall quality of life.
With two convenient locations in Summerville, Deaton Dental Associates and Flowertown Dentistry provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages.
Table of Contents
Why Do My Teeth Hurt?
Teeth can hurt for many different reasons. In some cases, the pain may come from the tooth itself. In others, it may originate from the gums, surrounding tissues, or even nearby structures such as the sinuses.
Some of the most common causes of tooth pain include:
- Tooth decay (cavities): Decay can wear through the enamel and irritate the inner layers of the tooth, causing sensitivity and pain.
- Tooth sensitivity: Worn enamel or exposed roots may cause discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Gum disease: Inflamed or infected gums can lead to soreness, swelling, bleeding, and discomfort around the teeth.
- Cracked, damaged, or infected teeth: Cracks, fractures, and infections can cause persistent pain, especially when biting or chewing.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Clenching or grinding can place excessive pressure on teeth and jaw muscles, leading to pain and sensitivity.
- Sinus pressure: In some cases, tooth discomfort may be caused by sinus congestion, which can create pressure that feels like tooth pain.
- Impacted wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth that do not have enough room to erupt properly can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort in the surrounding area.
When Is Tooth Pain a Dental Emergency?
Not all tooth pain requires immediate treatment, but certain symptoms should be evaluated as soon as possible. Prompt care can help prevent complications and improve treatment outcomes.
Contact a dentist promptly if you experience:
- Persistent or worsening tooth pain
- Pain when biting or chewing
- A broken, cracked, or knocked-out tooth
- Signs of infection, such as drainage, pus, or a bad taste in the mouth
- Swelling of the gums around a painful tooth
Seek urgent medical attention if tooth pain is accompanied by:
- Significant swelling of the face or jaw
- Fever
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
These symptoms may indicate a more serious infection that requires immediate evaluation.
Same-Day Care for Tooth Pain
Tooth pain can be difficult to ignore and may become more severe if the underlying problem is left untreated. When discomfort develops, timely evaluation can help identify the cause and prevent more extensive dental problems.
Drs. Rhett Deaton and Tiffany Deaton provide comprehensive dental care for patients experiencing tooth pain and other urgent concerns. Both Summerville offices offer same-day emergency appointments whenever possible.
During your visit, they evaluate your symptoms, explain their findings, review treatment options, and can often begin treatment the same day if you choose to proceed and scheduling permits.
Emergency Dentist in Summerville, SC
To book an appointment at Deaton Dental Associates, call (843) 873-3706 or visit us at 209 W 5th N St, Summerville, SC 29483.
To book an appointment at Flowertown Dentistry, call (843) 871-0814 or visit us at 445 North Cedar St, Summerville, SC 29483.
FAQ
Why do my teeth hurt all of a sudden?
Teeth may begin hurting suddenly even when the underlying problem has been present for some time. Tooth decay, infections, cracks, and gum disease can progress gradually before causing noticeable symptoms.
Why does my tooth hurt more at night?
Tooth pain may seem worse at night because there are fewer distractions to take your attention away from the discomfort. In some cases, lying down can also increase blood flow and pressure around inflamed tissues, making pain more noticeable.
Can a toothache go away on its own?
Some tooth pain may temporarily improve, but the underlying problem often remains. Persistent or recurring tooth pain should be evaluated by a dentist.
