Tooth Pain Guide

Momentary sensitivity to hot or cold foods

Possible Problem

If your discomfort lasts only moments, sensitivity to hot and cold foods generally does not signal an endodontic problem. The sensitivity may be caused by a loose filling or by minimal gum recession which exposes small areas of the root surface. The use of bleaching strips, trays, or whitening toothpaste can also cause sensitivity.

What To Do

Try using toothpastes made for sensitive teeth. Brush up and down with a soft brush; brushing sideways wears away exposed root surfaces. If this is unsuccessful, see your dentist.

Sharp momentary pain when biting down on food

Possible Problem

There are several possible causes of this type of pain: decay, a loose filling, or a crack in the tooth. There may be damage to the pulp tissue inside the tooth.

What To Do

See your family a dentist for evaluation. If the problem is a cracked tooth, your dentist may refer you to an endodontist. Cracked tooth pain comes from damage to the inner soft tissue of the tooth, the pulp. Endodontists are dentists who specialize in pulp-related procedures. Endodontic treatment, also known as root canal treatment, can relieve that pain.

Constant and severe pain and pressure, swelling of gum, and sensitivity to touch

Possible Problem

A tooth may have become abscessed, causing the surrounding bone to become infected.

What To Do

See your dentist for evaluation. You may be referred to an endodontist for treatment to relieve the pain and save the tooth. Take over-the-counter analgesics (Advil or Tylenol) until you see the endodontist.

Chronic pain in head, neck, or ear

Possible Problem

Sometimes pulp-damaged teeth cause pain in other parts of the head and neck, but other dental or medical problems may be responsible.

What To Do

See your dentist for evaluation. You may be referred to an endodontist for treatment to relieve the pain to save the tooth.  Take over-the-counter analgesics (Advil or Tylenol) until you see the endodontist.  If the problem is not related to the tooth, your endodontist will refer you to an appropriate dental specialist or a physician.