Question 1

Can this tool diagnose my dental problem?

Accepted Answer

No. This symptom checker is an educational tool only. It provides possible explanations for your symptoms based on common dental conditions, but it cannot replace a professional dental examination, X-rays, and clinical testing. Always see a dentist for an accurate diagnosis.

Question 2

When should I go to the emergency room for tooth pain?

Accepted Answer

Seek emergency care if you have a fever above 101°F (38.3°C), difficulty breathing or swallowing, facial swelling that is spreading to your eye or neck, uncontrolled bleeding, or trauma to the face or jaw.

Question 3

Why does my tooth hurt only when I bite down?

Accepted Answer

Pain on biting is often associated with a cracked tooth, a high filling, or a periapical abscess. A cracked tooth causes sharp pain when you release the bite (rebound pain). A high filling causes pain on initial contact. An abscess causes throbbing that worsens with pressure.

Question 4

What causes sensitivity to hot and cold?

Accepted Answer

Short-lived sensitivity (a few seconds) is typically caused by exposed dentin from enamel erosion, gum recession, or a recent dental procedure. Lingering sensitivity (more than 30 seconds) may indicate pulp inflammation (pulpitis) and should be evaluated promptly.

Question 5

Why does my tooth pain get worse at night?

Accepted Answer

Tooth pain often intensifies at night for several reasons. When you lie down, blood flow to your head increases, which raises pressure in the dental pulp. You also have fewer distractions at night, making pain more noticeable. Additionally, nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism) can aggravate existing dental issues. If nighttime pain is severe and throbbing, it may indicate irreversible pulpitis requiring prompt treatment.

Question 6

Can tooth pain go away on its own?

Accepted Answer

Mild sensitivity from a recent filling or whitening treatment may resolve within a few weeks. However, most tooth pain caused by decay, infection, or a cracked tooth will not go away without professional treatment. In some cases, the nerve may die, causing the pain to temporarily stop, but the underlying infection can worsen and lead to an abscess. It is always best to see a dentist rather than wait for pain to resolve on its own.

Question 7

What can I do to relieve tooth pain at home before seeing a dentist?

Accepted Answer

For temporary relief, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (which also reduces inflammation) or acetaminophen. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek in 20-minute intervals can help with swelling. Rinsing with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) can soothe irritated tissue. Avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods on the affected side. These are temporary measures and do not replace professional dental care.

Question 8

What does it mean if my gums are swollen around one tooth?

Accepted Answer

Localized gum swelling around a single tooth can indicate a periapical abscess (infection at the root tip), a periodontal abscess (infection in the gum pocket), a cracked tooth root, or food impaction between teeth. If the swelling is accompanied by pus, fever, or spreading redness, seek dental care as soon as possible, as untreated dental infections can become serious.

Question 9

Why do I feel pain in multiple teeth at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Pain in multiple teeth can be caused by sinus congestion (upper teeth share nerve pathways with the sinuses), bruxism (teeth grinding), gum disease affecting multiple areas, or referred pain where a problem in one tooth radiates to neighboring teeth. Widespread sensitivity may also indicate enamel erosion from acidic foods, acid reflux, or aggressive brushing.

Question 10

Can stress cause tooth pain?

Accepted Answer

Stress itself does not cause tooth decay or infection, but it can lead to behaviors that result in tooth pain. Stress-related bruxism (clenching and grinding) puts excessive force on teeth, causing cracks, wear, and TMJ (jaw joint) pain. Stress can also weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to gum infections. If you suspect bruxism, a dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth.

Tooth Pain Symptom Checker

How to Use This Tool

Describe Your Pain

Answer Follow-Up Questions

Get Possible Causes

Medical Disclaimer

How would you rate your pain?

How long have you been experiencing this pain?

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Tools

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Tooth Pain Symptom Checker

How to Use This Tool

Describe Your Pain

Answer Follow-Up Questions

Get Possible Causes

Medical Disclaimer

How would you rate your pain?

How long have you been experiencing this pain?

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Tools

Tooth Numbering Chart

Procedure Duration Estimator

Dental Cost Calculator