Almost everyone experiences tooth pain at some point, but not all discomfort is the same. Some types of tooth pain may be temporary and minor, while others signal a deeper problem that requires immediate attention. Knowing the difference can help you protect your oral health and prevent more serious issues down the road.

Dr. James A. Penney sees patients every day who wonder what their tooth pain really means. Here’s a guide to help you better understand your symptoms.

 

Sharp, Sudden Pain

If you experience a sudden, sharp pain in your tooth, it may be a sign of:

• Tooth decay: Cavities can cause sensitivity when biting down or eating certain foods.
• Cracked tooth: Even small cracks can expose nerves and trigger sharp pain.
• Loose filling: An older filling that no longer seals properly can create discomfort.

This type of pain should not be ignored. Early treatment can prevent the problem from getting worse.

 

Throbbing, Constant Pain

A toothache that lingers or throbs often points to infection inside the tooth or gums. This type of tooth pain may be caused by:

• Abscess: A pocket of infection at the root of a tooth.
• Severe decay: Deep cavities that reach the pulp inside the tooth.
• Advanced gum disease: Infections in the gums can radiate as tooth discomfort.

Throbbing pain is often an emergency. A root canal may be needed to remove the infection and save the tooth.

 

Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

Do your teeth sting when you drink hot coffee or eat ice cream? This kind of tooth pain could indicate:

• Worn enamel: When enamel thins, nerves underneath become more sensitive.
• Receding gums: Gum recession exposes parts of the tooth that are sensitive to temperature changes.
• Tooth damage or cavities: Sensitivity in one area may be linked to decay or cracks.

If sensitivity doesn’t go away within a few seconds, it may point to a more serious problem.

 

Pain When Chewing or Biting

Discomfort when chewing can signal:

• A cracked tooth: Pressure exposes nerves through the fracture.
• Damaged crown or filling: Restorations that don’t fit properly can cause pain.
• Infection: Swelling inside the tooth or bone may make chewing painful.

An evaluation can quickly determine whether the problem is structural or infection-related.

 

Dull, Aching Jaw or Tooth Pain

Sometimes tooth pain feels less sharp and more like a dull ache. Common causes include:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism): Grinding or clenching wears down enamel and irritates nerves.
• Sinus infection: Pain from the sinuses can radiate to the upper teeth.
• Impacted wisdom teeth: These can cause pressure and aching in the back of the mouth.

Even if the ache seems mild, it’s important to get checked, as ongoing stress on the teeth can lead to damage.

 

When to See an Endodontist

Any persistent or severe tooth pain should be evaluated promptly. Dr. Penney, an expert endodontist, diagnoses and treats internal tooth issues like infections requiring root canal therapy. Receiving care promptly can alleviate pain, save your tooth, and preserve your overall oral health.

 

Don’t Wait to Address Tooth Pain

Tooth pain is your body’s way of signaling that something isn’t right. From minor sensitivity to throbbing infections, each type of discomfort has a cause, and the sooner you address it, the better the outcome. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, call the office of James A. Penney, III, DDS in Little Rock today. Our team is here to provide compassionate care and lasting relief so you can smile with confidence again.