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6 Common Causes of Dental Pain and (What To Do About It)
By: BIOLASE
Dental pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong, and it should never be ignored. Whether it’s a sharp jolt when drinking something cold or a dull, persistent ache, tooth pain often signals an underlying issue that requires attention.
At BIOLASE, we empower dental professionals with advanced laser technology that helps patients manage pain with less anxiety, fewer drugs, and better outcomes. Below are six of the most common causes of dental pain and what you can do about them.
1. Why Do My Teeth Hurt When I Drink Something Hot or Cold?
This sensitivity may indicate:
- A small area of tooth decay
- A loose filling
- Exposed root surfaces due to gum recession or aggressive brushing
What to do: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for sensitive teeth. In some cases, your dentist may recommend a desensitizing treatment using laser therapy, such as the Epic Hygiene™ laser, to help relieve discomfort and treat early-stage gum recession.
2. Is It Normal to Have Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Work?
Yes, but it should only last a few days to a few weeks. Inflammation from procedures like fillings or crowns can trigger temporary nerve pain.
What to do: Use over-the-counter pain relievers and give it time. However, if discomfort persists beyond a few weeks, consult your dentist. Advanced procedures using Waterlase® all-tissue laser can reduce inflammation, promote faster healing, and minimize the need for anesthetics.
3. Why Do I Feel Sharp Pain When I Bite Down?
A sharp pain when biting or chewing may be a sign of:
- Tooth decay
- A loose or broken filling
- A cracked tooth
What to do: Schedule an exam right away. A cracked tooth can worsen quickly. Many dentists now offer laser-assisted decay removal to gently clean and seal the area using tools like the Waterlase®, often without shots or drills.
4. What Does Lingering Pain After Eating Mean?
If the pain lasts long after you’ve finished eating, you may be dealing with a tooth infection or pulpal inflammation.
What to do: Don’t delay. This type of pain could indicate that your tooth is dying from the inside out. A laser-assisted root canal can be used to thoroughly disinfect the canal system and save the tooth, helping to prevent a dangerous abscess from forming.
5. Why Do My Upper Teeth Hurt?
A dull ache or pressure in your upper molars could be a sign of:
- Sinus pressure
- Bruxism (teeth grinding or jaw clenching)
What to do: Consult with both your dentist and physician. If bruxism is the cause, your dentist may recommend a custom night guard or laser therapy for TMJ-related pain. Ask your dentist about managing TMJ and facial pain with dental laser therapy.
6. What Does Constant, Throbbing Tooth Pain Indicate?
Persistent pain usually means acute infection, often from a dying or abscessed tooth.
What to do: Seek treatment immediately. A laser-supported root canal or antibiotics may be needed to prevent serious health risks. BIOLASE dental laser technology enables your provider to disinfect and seal the affected area more thoroughly and less invasively.
Find A Waterlase Dentist Near You
Looking for a gentler, more comfortable dental experience? Use our Find a Waterlase Dentist tool to connect with a local provider who offers advanced, minimally invasive laser dentistry. Whether you need a filling, root canal, or gum treatment, experience the difference of Waterlase today!