A bad toothache rarely fixes itself. Pain that keeps you up at night, throbbing that won't quit, or a sharp twinge that turns into a constant ache means something is wrong inside the tooth. At Two Rivers Dental Group in Springfield, OR, Dr. Matthew Collins finds the source fast and gets you out of pain during the same visit. Most toothaches we see are caused by infection, decay, or a crack that's reached the nerve. Whatever it is, calling sooner means a smaller fix and faster relief.
Common Causes
Toothaches almost always come from one of these five sources. Understanding which one helps Dr. Collins move faster when you arrive.
The most common cause. Decay reaches deep enough into the tooth to irritate the nerve. Catching it early usually means a simple filling.
Bacteria reach the tooth's pulp and form a pocket of infection. Pain often comes with swelling, fever, or a bad taste. Antibiotics and a follow-up procedure are typically needed.
A crack from biting hard food, grinding, or trauma. The pain often shows up when you chew or release pressure. A crown usually saves the tooth.
An older restoration that's leaked, cracked, or fallen out leaves the tooth exposed to bacteria. Re-cementing or replacing the restoration usually solves it quickly.
When gums recede or get inflamed, exposed tooth roots become sensitive. Treating the gum issue and addressing root sensitivity brings relief without major work.
Pressure from grinding causes muscle pain that mimics a toothache and wears teeth down over time. A custom night guard usually solves it before damage becomes permanent.
Pain Decoder
Different pain patterns point to different problems. Here's what dentists look for when you describe your symptoms.
Your Visit
Most toothache visits go from arrival to relief in under an hour. Here's what to expect from the moment you walk in.
You're greeted and brought back. We listen to where it hurts, when it started, and what makes it worse.
Dr. Collins examines the tooth and takes a digital X-ray to see what's happening below the gum line.
You see the X-ray on screen. Dr. Collins explains the cause, the options, and exactly what will happen next. No pressure.
Most situations are treated same-day. You leave out of pain, with antibiotics or follow-up scheduled if needed.
Don't Wait It Out
Most toothaches don't get better on their own. They get worse. Here's the typical progression when pain is ignored.
Sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet food. Annoying but manageable. Easy to treat at this stage.
Pain becomes constant and harder to ignore. Sleep is affected. Filling territory turns into crown territory.
Bacteria reach the nerve. Pain intensifies. Now the tooth needs antibiotics and likely a root canal.
Untreated infection can spread to the jaw and beyond. The tooth may need extraction and replacement.
Two Rivers Dental Group serves toothache patients across Springfield, Eugene, Coburg, Thurston, Pleasant Hill, Creswell, and the surrounding Lane County communities. Our office at 1717 Centennial Blvd, Suite #3 is open Tuesday through Friday. Call (541) 746-9552 the moment pain starts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Call our Springfield office now. We'll get you in fast and out of pain the same visit whenever possible.
Call (541) 746-9552