When should tooth pain be checked by a dentist?

Tooth pain can come from decay, a cracked tooth, gum inflammation, infection, or sensitivity. Because different problems can feel similar, an examination is the safest way to identify the cause.

Seek prompt dental advice when pain is severe, interrupts sleep, persists, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, a bad taste, difficulty opening the mouth, or facial swelling.

Until your visit, keep the area clean and avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gum. Medication may reduce symptoms temporarily but does not remove the underlying cause.