Tooth and jaw pain can disrupt your day, ruin a good night’s sleep, or make simple activities like eating feel unbearable. But not all pain is created equal. Different types of discomfort can be tied to distinct dental conditions. Understanding what your pain might mean is the first step toward relief—and better oral health.
Below, the team from Pacific Woods Dental breaks down common types of jaw and tooth pain, explains what might be causing them, and helps you identify when it’s time to call our Portland emergency dentist.
Pain When Biting or Chewing
Possible Cause: Cracked Tooth, Tooth Abscess, or Damaged Filling
If you feel a sharp pain when biting down, it could point to a cracked tooth. A cracked molar or front tooth doesn’t always hurt on its own, but the pressure from chewing can cause the crack to shift, irritating the tooth’s nerves. Damaged fillings or untreated decay can also lead to pain when eating, as the exposed inner tooth layers are highly sensitive.
Action Plan
This type of pain rarely resolves on its own, especially if your tooth is damaged. Schedule a dental visit right away—we can diagnose whether the issue is a crack, a cavity, or something else. Ignoring it could cause greater pain or even infection.
Sensitivity to Hot, Cold, or Sweet Foods
Possible Cause: Tooth Decay, Gum Recession, or Infection
Do you cringe when you bite into ice cream or sip on hot coffee? Dental sensitivity often points to enamel erosion, gum recession, or an untreated cavity. When enamel thins or gums recede, sensitive areas of the tooth are exposed to temperature changes. If the sensitivity is especially intense or lingers long after the trigger is removed, it could signal an infection.
Action Plan
Switch to toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. However, if the sensitivity persists, see our Beaverton dentist. Early intervention for cavities or gum issues can prevent worsening damage.
Persistent Toothache
Possible Cause: Tooth Decay, Infection, or Abscess
A constant, throbbing pain in one tooth might mean there’s decay that’s reached deep inside your tooth. It could also be a sign that an infection is causing inflammation in the pulp. This kind of discomfort often gets worse with time, and untreated infections can spread beyond the tooth itself. You may end up needing a tooth extraction if you wait too long.
Action Plan
Don’t delay—this situation often requires a root canal or other intervention to save the tooth. Schedule a visit with our Portland emergency dentist immediately.
Jaw Pain or Soreness
Possible Cause: Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, Teeth Grinding
Jaw pain, especially near the ears, is a common symptom of TMJ disorders. These disorders affect the hinge joint connecting your jaw to your skull. They can cause soreness, stiffness, or even a clicking noise when chewing or talking. Chronic teeth grinding (bruxism) can also strain the jaw muscles, causing similar pain.
Action Plan
Pay attention to patterns—does the pain worsen after a stressful day or after waking up? Our dentist can assess your TMJ health and create a custom night guard to prevent grinding or relieve joint strain.
Ear and Jaw Pain on One Side
Possible Cause: TMJ Disorders or Referred Pain from Teeth
If jaw pain spreads to your ears, TMJ disorders may be the culprit. Alternatively, it could be referred pain from an infected or impacted tooth. The nerves in your jaw and teeth are all interconnected, so infections or inflammation can create sensations far from the actual problem site.
Action Plan
If the jaw and ear pain is ongoing or severe, head to Pacific Woods Dental for a full evaluation. We’ll determine whether the issue is dental, muscular, or joint-related and guide you to the right solution.
Sudden, Severe Pain and Swelling
Possible Cause: Abscessed Tooth or Serious Infection
Sudden, intense pain paired with swelling in the gums, face, or jaw often signals a dental abscess—a serious infection near the tooth root. Abscesses can develop from severe decay, trauma, or gum disease. Left untreated, infections from an abscess can spread and cause complications.
Action Plan
This is urgent, so contact our Portland emergency dentist. Treatment typically involves draining the infection and may include antibiotics or further procedures.
Generalized, Unexplained Pain
Possible Cause: Sinus Issues, Stress, or Misaligned Bite
Sometimes, tooth pain isn’t directly tied to dental health. For example, a sinus infection can cause your upper teeth to ache due to pressure in the sinus cavities. Stress, too, can make you clench your jaw, causing referred pain. Even something as simple as a misaligned bite can strain your teeth and jaw.
Action Plan
Our team can rule out dental problems and, if necessary, point you to other specialists, such as an ENT doctor. We can also get you started on orthodontic treatment.
When Should You See a Portland Emergency Dentist?
Mild, short-lived pain after eating ice cream or chewing on something hard may not warrant alarm. But recurring or severe pain is a signal that your teeth and gums need professional attention. Constant discomfort, swelling, or sharp pain shouldn’t be ignored, as early treatment can prevent bigger problems later.
Trust Us with Your Tooth Trouble
At Pacific Woods Dental, we’re here to get to the root of your pain and provide personalized care to restore comfort and function. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, book a visit with us. Whether it’s a cavity, a cracked tooth, or something requiring the attention of our Portland emergency dentist, we’ll find the source and help you smile without worry.
