Most toothaches do not get better on their own. In fact, dental pain is often your body’s way of telling you that something needs attention.
Whether the cause is a cavity, cracked tooth, infection, or damaged filling, waiting too long can allow a small problem to become a much more complicated one.
At Kakaris Family Dentistry, our doctors understand dental emergencies and toothaches can happen at any time. If you’re feeling tooth pain coming on and you’re wondering how your toothache may progress over time, here’s a toothache timeline for reference. Of course, everyone is different and your unique biology plays a major role, so use this timeline only as a reference for what to expect.
Day 1: Mild Sensitivity
You may notice discomfort when eating something hot, cold, or sweet. The pain comes and goes and may seem easy to ignore.
This could be an early cavity, a worn filling, or the beginning of a crack.
Days 2 to 7: Pain Becomes More Frequent
The discomfort becomes harder to ignore. You may notice pain while chewing or sensitivity that lingers after eating or drinking.
At this stage, treatment is often simpler than if the problem continues to progress.
Weeks Later: Constant Tooth Pain
Pain may become more severe and occur without any obvious trigger.
You may notice:
- Throbbing pain
- Swelling
- Pain that wakes you at night
- Pain when biting
- Sensitivity to pressure
These symptoms may indicate the nerve inside the tooth has become inflamed or infected.
When Infection Develops
Once an infection reaches the inside of the tooth, it will not heal on its own.
You may experience:
- Facial swelling
- A bad taste in your mouth
- Fever
- Difficulty chewing
- Swollen lymph nodes
A dental infection can spread if left untreated and should be evaluated as soon as possible.
Early Treatment Is Usually Easier
The sooner a toothache is diagnosed, the more treatment options are available.
Depending on the cause, treatment may include:
- A filling
- A crown
- Root canal therapy
- Treatment for gum disease
- Tooth replacement if the tooth cannot be saved
Early treatment is often less invasive, less expensive, and more predictable than waiting until the problem becomes an emergency.
Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain
If your tooth has been hurting for more than a day or two, it’s time to schedule an evaluation, or an emergency appointment if needed.
At Kakaris Family Dentistry, Dr. Kakaris and Dr. Kakaris Porter will identify the source of your pain and recommend the best treatment to relieve your discomfort and protect your smile.