Tooth Pain? What It Means and How to Ease It
Tooth pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp, throbbing pain that stops you in your tracks. Here is what causes it and how we treat it. Two Overland Park and Olathe offices, open seven days a week.
What Should I Do If My Tooth Hurts?
Tooth pain almost always has a cause that needs treating. A few simple steps can ease it until we see you.
- 1
Rinse with Salt Water
Rinse with warm salt water to clean the area and calm irritated gums around the tooth.
- 2
Floss Gently
Gently floss around the sore tooth to remove any food or debris caught between teeth.
- 3
Ease the Pain
Use an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed, and a cold compress on the cheek for swelling.
- 4
Call Us
Call us so we can find the cause and treat it. We see tooth pain seven days a week, often the same day.
Mild tooth pain can wait a day or two, but severe pain, swelling, or a fever means you should be seen right away.
What Causes Tooth Pain?
Tooth pain is a signal that something needs attention. The most common causes are:
Tooth Decay
A cavity that reaches the inner layers of the tooth is the most common cause of pain.
Infection or Abscess
An infection at the root of the tooth can cause severe, throbbing pain and needs prompt care.
A Cracked Tooth
A cracked or broken tooth can expose the nerve and cause pain when you bite or chew.
Gum Disease
Inflamed or receding gums can make teeth ache and feel tender, especially near the gumline.
Sources: American Dental Association, NHS
Can You Prevent Tooth Pain?
Much tooth pain is preventable. Brush and floss daily, keep up with regular checkups and cleanings, treat small cavities before they reach the nerve, and wear a night guard if you grind. Catching problems early is the best way to avoid the pain that comes when they are left alone.
When Is Tooth Pain an Emergency?
Most tooth pain is not an emergency, but severe pain, swelling, or fever needs urgent care. Here is how to tell the difference.
Mild or Occasional Pain
- →A dull ache that comes and goes
- →Mild sensitivity to hot or cold
- →Pain that eases with over-the-counter relief
- →No swelling, fever, or bad taste
Severe Pain or Swelling
- →Severe or throbbing pain that will not ease
- →Swelling in the face, gums, or jaw
- →Pain along with a fever or a bad taste
- →Pain that keeps you awake at night
If you are not sure how serious your tooth pain is, call us and we will help you decide over the phone. We can often see you the same day.
How Do Dentists Treat Tooth Pain?
The right treatment depends on what is causing the pain. We always recommend the simplest option that lasts.
How We Treat Tooth Pain in Overland Park & Olathe
We hold time for tooth pain and often see it the same day you call.
Tooth pain does not wait for Monday, and neither do we, including weekends.
Bonding and veneers are matched to your other teeth so the repair blends in.
Overland Park and Olathe, so relief is always close to home.
Over 35,000 patients served, award winning, and among the highest rated dentists across Johnson County.
OUR LOCATIONS
Find a Location Closest to You
OVERLAND PARK · 135TH & QUIVIRA
Your South Overland Park Dentist
Our Overland Park office sits at 135th Street and Quivira, steps from Quivira Crossings and McKeever’s Price Chopper. We are the everyday dentist for families across south Overland Park, from Nottingham and St. Andrews to the homes around Bentwood Park, inside the Blue Valley School District. Open every day including Saturdays and Sundays.
More about our Overland Park office →OLATHE · 119TH & BLACK BOB
Your Olathe Dentist at Olathe Pointe
Our Olathe office is inside Olathe Pointe at 119th Street and Black Bob Road, anchored by Whole Foods and directly across from the Target at Olathe Station. The convenient choice for families near Black Bob Park, the Brougham Drive neighborhoods, and Black Bob Elementary in the Olathe School District. Open every day including Saturdays and Sundays.
More about our Olathe office →