toothache

Have a Toothache in Salem, OR?

See a dentist today for help with tooth pain.

What causes toothaches?


Toothaches are usually caused by either tooth decay irritating the root of a tooth or inflammation of the tissue surrounding the tooth itself. Your tooth pain may not always be an “ache” and common symptoms include sensitivity to hot/cold temperatures and pressure (like when you bite down to eat).

What can a dentist do about my toothache?

Your dentist can diagnose the root cause of your toothache and then recommend treatment to fix the tooth pain. Generally speaking, the most common ways a dentist can help with tooth pain are:

  • Filling a cavity or placing a crown
  • Performing a root canal in an infected tooth
  • Extracting a tooth that is too decayed or damaged to save
  • Prescribing antibiotics to eliminate infection in the mouth

How do you stop a tooth pain at home?

In nearly all cases, at-home toothache remedies are temporary measures and the pain can only be stopped by a dentist. Some things you can try to relieve tooth pain at home are:

  • Using Sensodyne or another toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth
  • Gargling with warm (not hot) salt water
  • Applying clove oil to the sore tooth

 

While these can provide short-term relief, it’s also important to schedule an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can diagnose the problem and ensure the pain is gone for good.

What is the best painkiller for a toothache?

Cavities don’t go away on their own. However, small areas of decay don’t always require immediate treatment. We may “wait and see” to see how they develop before recommending a course of treatment.

How do I know if my toothache is serious?

All toothaches are potentially serious. While most are an early warning sign of a cavity or gum disease, some toothaches may indicate the presence of a serious infection. Be on the lookout for any tooth pain accompanied by:

  • Fever
  • Throbbing ache/pain
  • Pus discharge
  • Warm, red, or swollen skin

 

These may be signs of an abscessed tooth that will require immediate treatment to prevent serious health complications.

Can you go to the ER for a toothache?

An ER may be able to provide pain relief or antibiotics for an infected tooth. However, fillings, root canals, extractions, and other dental procedures can only be performed by a dentist. The hospital or emergency room will aim to relieve pain and stabilize you before referring you to a dentist. Be aware that many hospitals and emergency rooms are hesitant to prescribe strong pain medications. Seeking a dentist directly may be a better option if possible.

Will dental insurance cover my toothache treatment?

Most forms of dental insurance do include some coverage for the treatment of tooth decay, gum disease, and other causes of tooth pain. If you come to Healthy Smiles Family Dental in Salem, be aware that we accept most insurances and offer a variety of flexible payment options, including CareCredit.

What’s the best place to fix a toothache in Salem?

At Healthy Smiles Family Dental in Salem, we fix toothaches fast and offer same-day emergency treatments to treat tooth pain.

Financing & Payment Options

We offer CareCredit and discount plans through Principal and Carrington. Our office can also arrange payment plans with automatic withdrawals from your bank account.

Whether you have dental insurance or not, we’ll help you get the general dentistry treatments you want and need at a price you can afford.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions but prefer not to call? Browse our FAQs for quick answers and a better understanding of our dental office and services.

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing or damaged teeth. They act as artificial roots and support crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Most healthy adults who have missing or damaged teeth with sufficient jawbone density are good candidates. During your consultation, our team of expert dentists will assess your teeth and gums to see if implants are the right fit for you.

With proper care and regular dental check-ups, implants can last 15 years or longer. With the right maintenance, possibly a lifetime.

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and most patients report minimal discomfort. Mild soreness tends to occur afterwards and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Caring for implants is similar to caring for natural teeth—daily brushing and flossing with regular dental visits. These steps are essential for long-term success.