Is a toothache always an emergency?

Not always — but pain that lasts more than a day or two, or that is accompanied by swelling or fever, should be evaluated promptly. Call us and we will help you decide whether you need to be seen today.

Can a toothache go away on its own?

Sometimes the pain quiets down even though the underlying problem is still there. A nerve that has died, for example, may stop hurting but still need treatment. If you had real pain, please get it checked.

What if my tooth hurts only when I bite down?

Sharp pain on biting can point to a cracked tooth, a high filling, or an infection. We can usually narrow it down quickly with an exam and an x-ray.

Will I need a root canal?

Not necessarily. Many toothaches are resolved with a filling or by adjusting a bite. A root canal is only needed when the nerve inside the tooth is infected or dying. We will walk you through the options before any treatment.

What does it cost to be seen for tooth pain?

A focused emergency exam (with a targeted x-ray) is straightforward and usually covered in part by dental insurance. We will give you a written estimate before any treatment starts.

Severe pain, swelling, or facial trauma?

Call us now — we offer same-day appointments for urgent dental problems.

Call (619) 265-2262

Symptom guide

Tooth pain — what to do

A toothache that lasts more than a day or two usually has a treatable cause. Here is how to think about it, what you can try at home tonight, and when to call us.

Request a same-day appointment Or call (619) 265-2262

Hablamos español. Nói tiếng Việt.

This is not a diagnosis. This page describes common causes and general self-care suggestions. It cannot replace an in-person exam. If you are unsure, please call us — we will help you figure out what to do.

Possible causes

Common reasons behind tooth pain. Only an exam can confirm the cause for you.

✓A cavity that has reached the inner layer of the tooth
✓A cracked or fractured tooth, sometimes with no visible damage
✓An infection at the root of the tooth (abscess)
✓A loose or failing filling or crown
✓Gum recession exposing sensitive root surfaces

When to come in — or call right away

Any of the following deserves prompt evaluation. Call us today.

Facial swelling, especially around the jaw or under the eye
Fever along with the tooth pain
Difficulty swallowing, breathing, or opening your mouth
Pain severe enough that over-the-counter pain relievers do not touch it
Pain that wakes you up at night or has lasted more than 2–3 days

Call (619) 265-2262

What you can try right now

These are general suggestions, not medical advice. Follow the directions on any product you use, and ask your dentist or doctor if you are unsure.

•Rinse gently with warm salt water (about 1/2 teaspoon salt in a cup of warm water).
•Take an over-the-counter pain reliever following the directions on the package; do not exceed the labeled dose.
•Avoid very hot, very cold, or very sweet foods on the painful side.
•Try a cold compress on the outside of your cheek for 10–15 minutes at a time.
•Do not place aspirin directly on the gum — it can burn the tissue.

How KinDentists treats tooth pain

Treatment depends on the underlying cause — here are the services that most often resolve this for our patients.

Urgent Care

Emergency Dental Care

Urgent dental care for tooth pain, broken teeth, and dental emergencies. Same-day appointments available.

Preventive Care

Fillings & Preventive Care

Cavity fillings and preventive dental treatments to protect and preserve your natural teeth.

Restorative Care

Crowns & Cosmetic Restorations

Dental crowns, bridges, and restorative treatments to repair damaged teeth and restore function and appearance.

You might also have

Cracked Tooth→Sensitive Teeth→Dental Abscess→

Tooth pain near you

See how we help with tooth pain in your San Diego neighborhood — directions, transit, and same-day options.

Tooth pain in City Heights→Tooth pain in North Park→Tooth pain in Normal Heights→

Common questions

Tooth Pain FAQ

Other common symptoms

Bleeding gums Cracked tooth Chipped tooth Sensitive teeth Jaw pain Wisdom tooth pain Abscess Broken tooth Bleeding gums Swollen jaw Bad breath Dry mouth Gum recession Loose tooth Canker sores Take the symptom triage quiz →

Not sure what to do next?

Call us — we will help you decide whether you need to be seen today or whether it can wait for a routine visit. Hablamos español. Nói tiếng Việt.

Call (619) 265-2262 Request a same-day appointment

Tooth pain — what to do

Possible causes

When to come in — or call right away

What you can try right now

How KinDentists treats tooth pain

Emergency Dental Care

Fillings & Preventive Care

Crowns & Cosmetic Restorations

You might also have

Tooth pain near you

Tooth Pain FAQ

Is a toothache always an emergency?+

Can a toothache go away on its own?+

What if my tooth hurts only when I bite down?+

Will I need a root canal?+

What does it cost to be seen for tooth pain?+

Other common symptoms

Not sure what to do next?

Tooth pain — what to do

Possible causes

When to come in — or call right away

What you can try right now

How KinDentists treats tooth pain

Emergency Dental Care

Fillings & Preventive Care

Crowns & Cosmetic Restorations

You might also have

Tooth pain near you

Tooth Pain FAQ

Is a toothache always an emergency?+

Can a toothache go away on its own?+

What if my tooth hurts only when I bite down?+

Will I need a root canal?+

What does it cost to be seen for tooth pain?+

Other common symptoms

Not sure what to do next?