A severe toothache can disrupt daily life, making eating, speaking, or sleeping difficult. While occasional sensitivity may not be a concern, persistent or intense pain often indicates a more serious issue that requires professional care.
Dr. Aman Sidhu, D.D.S., earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery with honors from the University of Southern California and has years of experience managing complex dental cases. As the official team dentist of the Las Vegas Raiders, he is known for his precision and compassionate approach to patient care.
Learning what causes toothaches and when to get help can make all the difference in maintaining healthy teeth.
Common Causes of a Severe Toothache
A severe toothache often stems from underlying issues. Common causes include:
- Tooth Decay and Cavities – As cavities progress, they can affect the nerve, leading to throbbing pain and potential complications.
- Gum Infections and Abscesses – An abscess is a serious infection that forms at the tooth’s root or in the gums. Symptoms often involve swollen gums, fever, and a persistent bitter or bad taste.
- Cracked or Fractured Teeth – A break in the tooth structure can expose nerve endings, leading to sharp, shooting pain.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth – When wisdom teeth fail to erupt properly, they can create pressure and inflammation in the surrounding gums and jaw.
- Sinus Infections or Other Health Conditions – Sometimes, pain that feels like a toothache is actually caused by sinus pressure, nerve issues, or jaw disorders.
Signs That Your Toothache is a Dental Emergency
Not all toothaches require immediate attention, but some symptoms indicate a serious problem that should not be ignored. You should seek emergency dental care if you experience:
- Sudden or severe pain that does not improve
- Swelling in the gums, jaw, or face
- A high fever or a bad taste in the mouth, which could signal an infection
- Difficulty chewing or opening your mouth fully
- Bleeding from the gums or a broken tooth
If ignored, these symptoms may progress into a more severe infection or long-term dental damage. Seeking prompt treatment can help protect both your oral health and overall well-being.
Treatment Options for Severe Toothaches
The right treatment depends on the cause of your toothache. Common solutions include:
- Fillings or Crowns – Restore teeth damaged by cavities or minor cracks.
- Root Canal Therapy – Removes infected pulp to save the tooth.
- Tooth Extraction – Necessary for severe damage or impacted wisdom teeth.
- Antibiotics & Drainage – Treats infections before further care.
Seeking treatment early can prevent complications and the need for more invasive procedures.
Severe Toothache Relief in Henderson, NV
If you are dealing with a severe toothache, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Densley Dental in Henderson, NV, provides expert care for dental emergencies. Contact us at 702-212-6641 today to schedule an appointment and get relief fast.
