Toothache Relief in Woodinville, WA
A toothache can make it hard to eat, sleep, or focus on anything else. Tooth pain is your body’s way of signaling that something needs attention, whether it’s a cavity, an infection, a cracked tooth, or irritated gums. At Oasis Family Dentistry, Dr. Tim Hung finds the source of your pain quickly and provides gentle, effective treatment so you can get back to feeling like yourself.
Request an AppointmentWhat Causes a Toothache?
Tooth pain can range from a dull, constant ache to sharp, throbbing pain that comes and goes. The type of pain you feel often offers clues about its cause.
Common Sources of Tooth Pain
- Tooth decay: Cavities that reach the inner layers of a tooth can cause aching or sensitivity.
- Infected or inflamed pulp: Deep decay or trauma can inflame the nerve, causing severe, lingering pain that may need root canal therapy.
- Dental abscess: A pocket of infection at the root or gum can cause throbbing pain, swelling, and fever.
- Cracked teeth: Pain when biting or releasing pressure often points to a crack.
- Gum disease: Infected gums can create a deep ache around one or more teeth.
- Impacted wisdom teeth: Pressure and pain in the back of the jaw may signal that wisdom teeth removal is needed.
- Teeth grinding: Clenching can cause sore teeth and jaw pain, especially in the morning.
- Sinus pressure: Upper back teeth may ache during a sinus infection.
When a Toothache Is an Emergency
Call our office right away at (425) 486-9245 if you experience severe or worsening pain, swelling in your face or jaw, fever, a bad taste or pus in your mouth, or pain following an injury. These symptoms may indicate an infection that needs prompt care. Our team makes every effort to see patients the same day through our emergency dental care service.
How We Diagnose and Treat Tooth Pain
Dr. Hung will ask about your symptoms, examine the area, and take digital X-rays to see what’s happening beneath the surface. Depending on the cause, treatment may include:
- A tooth-colored filling to repair a cavity
- A dental crown to protect a cracked or weakened tooth
- Root canal therapy to remove infection and save the tooth
- A gentle tooth extraction when a tooth can’t be saved
- A deep cleaning for gum-related pain
- A custom night guard for grinding-related soreness
If you’re nervous about treatment, ask about sedation dentistry.
Managing Tooth Pain Until Your Appointment
Rinse with warm salt water, floss gently to remove trapped food, and take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed on the label. A cold compress on the outside of your cheek can reduce swelling. Never place aspirin directly on the gums, as it can burn the tissue. Learn about other dental conditions we treat.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toothaches
Can a toothache go away on its own?
Pain may come and go, but the underlying cause, such as decay or infection, usually remains and can worsen. It’s important to have any persistent toothache evaluated.
Why does my tooth hurt when I bite down?
Pain when biting often indicates a crack, a deep cavity, a high filling, or inflammation around the root. Dr. Hung can pinpoint the cause with an exam and X-rays.
Do I need a root canal for my toothache?
Not always. A root canal is needed when the nerve is infected or irreversibly inflamed. Many toothaches are resolved with fillings, crowns, or other treatments.
Can a tooth infection spread?
Yes. An untreated dental abscess can spread to the jaw, neck, and other areas of the body. Swelling or fever with tooth pain needs prompt attention.
What should I do if my toothache starts at night?
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed, use a cold compress, and keep your head elevated. Call (425) 486-9245 first thing when our office opens.
Can sinus problems cause tooth pain?
Yes. Sinus pressure can cause aching in the upper back teeth. If pain persists after sinus symptoms clear, have your teeth checked.
Can I be seen the same day for a toothache?
We make every effort to see patients in pain the same day. Call Oasis Family Dentistry at (425) 486-9245 as early as possible.
Get Fast Relief From Tooth Pain
Don’t suffer through a toothache. Call Oasis Family Dentistry at (425) 486-9245 or request an appointment online so Dr. Hung can find and treat the cause.