Types of Dental Pain: Signs You Should Call Your Dentist

Dental pain comes in many forms, from a dull ache to sharp, shooting discomfort. While some minor sensitivity may resolve on its own, persistent or severe pain often signals a problem that requires professional attention. Ignoring certain types of dental pain can lead to more serious complications, including infection, tooth loss, or damage to surrounding teeth.

At North Creek Dental Care, our team helps patients throughout the Chicago area identify when dental pain requires immediate care. With advanced diagnostic technology and comprehensive treatment options, we address the underlying causes of your discomfort and restore your oral health.

Sharp Pain When Biting Down

If you experience a sudden, sharp pain when you bite or chew, you may have a cracked tooth, loose filling, or developing cavity. This type of pain typically occurs in a specific area and happens repeatedly when pressure is applied to the affected tooth. A crack in your tooth enamel can expose the sensitive inner layers, causing significant discomfort each time you eat.

This pain pattern shouldn’t be ignored. Cracks can worsen over time, potentially leading to tooth fractures or infections if bacteria enter the tooth’s interior. Schedule an appointment so we can examine the tooth, determine the extent of damage, and recommend appropriate treatment such as a filling, crown, or bonding procedure.

Constant, Throbbing Pain in Your Teeth

Persistent, throbbing pain that doesn’t subside often indicates an infection or abscess. This type of discomfort may worsen at night when you lie down, and it can radiate to your jaw, ear, or neck. You might also notice swelling in your gums, face, or jaw, along with sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.

An untreated dental infection can spread to other parts of your body, creating serious health risks. If you’re experiencing constant pain along with fever, swelling, or a foul taste in your mouth, contact us immediately. Root canal therapy or other interventions can eliminate the infection and save your tooth.

Tooth Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

Brief sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages is common and may not always require treatment. However, if the sensitivity lasts more than a few seconds after the trigger is removed, or if it’s severe enough to make eating uncomfortable, you should have it evaluated. Prolonged sensitivity can indicate enamel erosion, gum recession, or tooth decay.

Exposed tooth roots due to receding gums are a frequent cause of temperature sensitivity. As gums pull away from teeth, the underlying dentin becomes exposed, creating pathways for hot and cold sensations to reach the tooth’s nerve. We can recommend treatments like desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride applications, or bonding procedures to protect exposed areas and reduce discomfort.

Pain in Your Jaw or While Chewing

Jaw pain or discomfort while chewing can stem from several issues, including temporomandibular joint dysfunction, teeth grinding, or dental problems like abscesses. TMJ disorders affect the joint connecting your jaw to your skull, causing pain that may feel like it’s coming from your teeth. You might hear clicking or popping sounds when you open your mouth, or experience difficulty fully opening your jaw.

Teeth grinding, especially during sleep, puts excessive pressure on your teeth and jaw muscles. Over time, this can wear down tooth enamel, cause chips or cracks, and lead to chronic pain. We offer solutions like custom nightguards to protect your teeth and reduce jaw strain while you sleep.

Swollen or Bleeding Gums

Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing, or appear red and swollen, signal gum disease. Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, causes inflammation and bleeding but can be reversed with proper care. If left untreated, it progresses to periodontitis, which damages the tissues and bone supporting your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss.

Regular dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that contribute to gum disease. If you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or gums that are pulling away from your teeth, schedule an evaluation. Early intervention prevents progression and protects your overall oral health.

Persistent Bad Breath or Unusual Taste

Chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing and flossing may indicate an underlying dental problem. Tooth decay, gum disease, and infections can all produce persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth. An abscess, in particular, may create a bitter or metallic taste as it drains.

Don’t dismiss ongoing bad breath as a minor inconvenience. It often signals bacteria buildup or infection that requires professional treatment. We can identify the source of the problem and provide solutions ranging from deep cleanings to treating infected teeth.

Pain in Your Mouth That Wakes You at Night

Dental pain severe enough to wake you from sleep demands immediate attention. This intensity of discomfort usually indicates a significant problem like an abscess, severe decay, or advanced gum disease. Nighttime pain often worsens because lying down increases blood flow to your head, creating more pressure in infected or inflamed areas.

Don’t wait until morning if you’re experiencing severe nighttime pain accompanied by fever, facial swelling, or difficulty swallowing. These symptoms can indicate a spreading infection that requires urgent care.

Seek Immediate Care With North Creek Dental Care

Southland’s Best Dental Office 2024 provides comprehensive care for patients experiencing dental pain throughout the Chicago area. Dr. Omar El Ebrashy earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine with High Honors from Boston University and continues expanding his knowledge through ongoing education. Dr. Samuel D. Kang completed a three-year prosthodontics residency and an additional year as an Implant Fellow, giving him advanced training in complex dental procedures. Our practice has proudly served the community for over four decades.Contact North Creek Dental Care today if you’re experiencing persistent or severe dental pain. We’ll evaluate your symptoms, identify the underlying cause, and develop a treatment plan to restore your comfort and oral health. Learn more about our dental team and the comprehensive services we provide.