Tooth pain and symptom guide.

See an endodontist if tooth pain lasts more than a day or two, wakes you at night, throbs, or flares when you bite or chew. These signs often point to the pulp, the living tissue inside the tooth, which is what endodontists treat. Early care usually saves the tooth.

Throbbing pain often means the pulp inside the tooth is inflamed or infected. It is not always an emergency, but it rarely improves on its own. Booking a same-day or next-day visit gives you the best chance to save the tooth comfortably.

Pain that comes and goes can be an early sign of pulp inflammation. The quiet stretches do not mean the problem is healing. Having it checked early is easier than waiting until the pain becomes constant.

Lying down increases blood flow to the head, which can raise pressure inside an inflamed tooth and make pain feel worse at night. Night pain is a common reason people seek care, and it usually responds well to treatment.

Common signs include lingering pain, swelling of the gum or face, a bad taste, sensitivity to heat, or a small bump on the gum near the tooth. If you notice these, see a provider promptly. Spreading swelling or a fever needs same-day care.

Many cracked teeth can be saved, especially when treated early. The right approach depends on how deep the crack goes. An endodontist uses magnification and 3D imaging to find the crack and recommend the best option.

Brief sensitivity that fades within a second or two is usually normal. Sensitivity that lingers, especially to heat, can signal that the pulp is inflamed and is worth having checked.

A hospital emergency room can help with severe swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, a high fever, or a serious injury. For the tooth itself, an endodontist is the right provider. Go to the ER or call 911 if facial swelling spreads toward your eye or throat.

Mild soreness for two to three days is normal and usually eases with over-the-counter pain relievers. Pain that increases after 72 hours is worth a call to your endodontist.

Over-the-counter ibuprofen taken as directed by your provider, if it is safe for you, eases most tooth pain. A cold compress on the outside of the cheek can also help. Avoid hot foods and chewing on that side until you are seen.

Pain sometimes quiets when the nerve inside a tooth dies, but that does not mean the problem is gone. The infection may continue to spread into the surrounding bone without causing obvious pain. A tooth that stops hurting still needs to be evaluated.