Tooth Pain? Here Is What It Means and How We Help
A toothache is your body telling you something needs attention. Whether it is a dull ache or a sharp, throbbing pain, our team finds the cause fast and gets you out of pain. Same-day appointments are available at all three locations.
- Mesquite
- Garland
- Balch Springs
Common Causes of Tooth Pain
Tooth pain has many possible sources, and the type of pain often points to the cause. Here are the reasons people most often search for relief, and what each one usually means.
Cavities and Tooth Decay
The most common cause. Decay eats through enamel and reaches the sensitive inner layers, creating an ache that gets worse with sweets, heat, or cold.
Infection or Abscess
A deep infection in the tooth or gum causes intense, throbbing pain, often with swelling. This needs prompt care to stop the infection from spreading.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
A crack can be invisible yet cause sharp pain when you bite down or release. Damage tends to worsen over time, so early treatment protects the tooth.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
A quick zing from ice cream or hot coffee often means worn enamel, a receding gum line, or an exposed root rather than a deeper problem.
Gum Disease
Inflamed, infected gums can make teeth ache and feel tender, especially near the gum line. Treating the gums often resolves the discomfort.
Wisdom Teeth or Grinding
Pressure from impacted wisdom teeth, or nightly clenching and grinding, can leave teeth and the jaw sore. Both are easy for us to identify.
When to See a Dentist Right Away
Some tooth pain can wait a day or two. Other signs mean you should be seen quickly. Call your nearest Inspire Dental location the same day if you notice any of the following:
- Severe or throbbing pain that does not ease with over-the-counter relief
- Pain that has lasted longer than one or two days
- Swelling in the face, jaw, or gums, or a fever along with the pain
- A bad taste in the mouth, or discharge near a sore tooth
- Pain after a knock or injury to the mouth, or a visibly broken tooth
Tooth pain rarely goes away on its own. Getting seen early is usually simpler, more comfortable, and more affordable than waiting.
How We Find the Cause and Treat It
Every toothache starts with a careful exam. We use a focused exam and X-rays to pinpoint the source of your pain, then walk you through the options before any treatment begins.
Same-Day Relief for Urgent Pain
When you are in real pain, you should not have to wait. Our team offers same-day emergency exams to diagnose the problem fast and get you comfortable again.
Explore emergency dental care →Saving an Infected Tooth
If the pain comes from a deep infection, a root canal removes the infection and relieves the pain while keeping your natural tooth in place.
Learn about root canal treatment →Depending on the cause, treatment may be as simple as a filling for a cavity, care for the gums, or a crown to protect a cracked tooth. We will always explain what we find and recommend the most conservative option first. You can also read general guidance on dental symptoms from the American Dental Association at MouthHealthy.org, or review the overview of toothache causes from the National Library of Medicine at MedlinePlus.
2,700+
5-star Google reviews from local families
3
Convenient offices across the East Dallas area
Same Day
Emergency appointments for urgent tooth pain
Since 2017
Trusted care for kids, teens, and adults
Do Not Wait Out a Toothache
Book online or call the location closest to you. We accept Medicaid, CHIP, and most PPO plans, with flexible payment plans to fit your budget.
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Care You Can Trust for Your Tooth Pain
Inspire Dental & Orthodontics was founded in 2017 by Dr. Patel and Dr. Paul, two dentists who grew up in this community. Every toothache is examined by a licensed dentist, diagnosed with X-rays, and treated with a plan you understand before we begin. Our bilingual team has earned more than 2,700 five-star reviews from families at our offices in Mesquite, Garland, and Balch Springs.
Relief That Patients Remember
Real reviews from people who came in with tooth pain and left feeling better.
I called in the morning with a tooth that had been throbbing all night and they got me in the same day. The dentist found the problem quickly and explained everything. I walked out without pain for the first time in days. So grateful.
My back tooth started hurting whenever I chewed. Turned out it was cracked. The team was honest about my options and never pushed anything. The whole visit was calm and easy and the pain is finally gone.
Llegué con un dolor de muela muy fuerte y me atendieron el mismo día. El doctor fue muy amable y me explicó todo con calma. Salí sin dolor y muy agradecida con todo el equipo. Lo recomiendo de todo corazón.