Nobody likes a toothache. It’s distracting, it’s uncomfortable, and it always seems to get worse at night or on a weekend. We get calls all the time from patients in Winter Springs, FL, who aren’t sure if their pain is an emergency or something that can wait.
That’s exactly why we put this guide together. We want you to have a clear idea of what your tooth pain might mean. And more importantly, we want you to know when to pick up the phone and call us right away. Let’s break down the most common types of tooth pain and what they usually signal.
Sharp Pain When You Bite Down
Does it feel like a shock when you chew something? That sharp, zinging sensation often means there’s a problem with a specific tooth.
It could be a chipped tooth. Chips aren’t always visible to the naked eye, but they sure make themselves known when pressure hits them. It could also be a loose filling or a cavity that’s gotten deep enough to expose the inner layers of your tooth.
Either way, sharp pain on biting isn’t something to ignore. Chips can spread, and cavities only get bigger. We recommend calling us sooner rather than later so we can take a look and fix it before it gets worse.
Dull, Aching Pain That Won’t Quit
That constant, throbbing ache is miserable. It just sits there, wearing you down all day.
This type of pain often points to an infection or an abscess. That means bacteria have gotten inside the nerve of your tooth. The pulp is inflamed, and your body is telling you something’s wrong.
This kind of pain doesn’t go away on its own. It needs attention. In many cases, we’ll recommend a root canal to clean out the infection and save the tooth. We know that sounds scary, but we promise it’s not as bad as living with that constant ache.
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
Do you wince when you sip hot coffee or bite into ice cream? That’s a really common complaint we hear.
Sometimes it’s no big deal. It could just be a spot of gum recession that’s exposed the root surface. That sensitive area can be treated with special toothpaste or a simple bonding procedure.
But sometimes, sensitivity is a warning sign. It could indicate a cavity, a damaged filling, or even a dying nerve. If that sensitivity lingers for more than a few seconds after the hot or cold is gone, that’s a clue it’s more serious. We’d want to check that out.
Pain That Moves or Changes
Does your pain seem to wander? One day it’s on the top, the next day it’s on the bottom.
That moving pain often points to a sinus issue, especially when it’s in your upper back teeth. Sinus pressure can really mimic a toothache. Grinding your teeth at night can also cause a generalized ache that isn’t tied to one specific tooth.
Still, we don’t guess. We’ll do a thorough exam to pinpoint what’s going on. That’s the only way to know for sure.
When Should You Call Us?
If the pain has lasted more than a day, don’t wait. If it wakes you up at night, definitely call. And if you’ve got swelling in your jaw or face, that’s urgent.
We offer same-day emergency appointments. We’ll get you in, find the problem, and give you real options to make the pain stop. You don’t have to tough it out or hope it disappears.
We’re Here to Help You Feel Better
Tooth pain is your body’s way of waving a red flag. We’re here to listen, diagnose, and treat it with care.
Call New Smile Dentistry and Orthodontics in Winter Springs, FL, today or request an appointment online. We’ll get you on the schedule and help you get back to smiling without the ache. You deserve relief, and we’re ready to provide it.