Insights from Dr. Inigo at Inigo Dentistry in Fort Erie and Ridgeway, ON
Tooth pain can range from a mild annoyance to intense discomfort that disrupts daily life. But no matter how minor it may seem, a toothache is never something to ignore. It’s your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. At Inigo Dentistry, Dr. Inigo helps patients in Fort Erie, Ridgeway, and surrounding areas identify the root cause of their discomfort and provide fast, effective relief.
Understanding what’s behind the pain is the first step toward lasting relief and better oral health.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, call our Fort Erie office at 905-871-2903 or our Ridgeway office at 905-894-5555 to schedule a dental evaluation with our dentist near you. We also proudly serve patients from Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, Welland, and surrounding communities.
What Is a Toothache? Our Fort Erie Dentist Explains
A toothache refers to pain in or around a tooth. It may come on suddenly or build gradually, and it can vary in severity. Some people experience sharp, stabbing pain when biting down, while others report a dull, throbbing ache that won’t go away. In any case, a toothache is often a sign that there’s an underlying issue requiring professional dental care.
Common Causes of Toothaches Near Niagara Falls
Toothaches can be triggered by a variety of factors, some more urgent than others. Here are the most common causes our dental team sees in Fort Erie and Ridgeway:
1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)
One of the most frequent causes of toothaches, cavities form when bacteria break down the enamel and create holes in the tooth. If left untreated, the decay can reach the nerve, causing sharp pain or sensitivity.
Why It Matters: Early cavities may not hurt, but once the inner layers are exposed, treatment like fillings or root canals may be needed.
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Gum Disease
Inflammation and infection of the gums, known as gingivitis or periodontitis, can lead to gum recession and expose sensitive tooth roots. This can cause aching or throbbing, especially while chewing. You may eventually need gum grafting to rectify any severely recessed gums.
Why It Matters: Gum disease can lead to tooth loss if not managed properly. Regular cleanings and early treatment can stop its progression.
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Dental Abscess or Infection
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It often presents as intense, persistent pain, swelling, fever, or a foul taste in the mouth.
Why It Matters: This is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body.
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Cracked or Fractured Tooth
A cracked tooth may cause sharp pain when biting down or sudden sensitivity to hot and cold. Cracks can be small and hard to see, but they can still lead to discomfort and infection.
Why It Matters: Prompt evaluation is key to saving the tooth. Treatment may involve bonding, a crown, or root canal therapy.
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Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Clenching or grinding your teeth, especially during sleep, can wear down enamel and put stress on your jaw. This can lead to tooth sensitivity, soreness, or a dull ache.
Why It Matters: A custom night guard from our Ridgeway dentist can help protect your teeth and relieve discomfort.
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Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to erupt properly, they can push against other teeth or become infected, leading to swelling, jaw pain, or gum tenderness in the back of the mouth.
Why It Matters: Impacted teeth may need to be removed to prevent complications.
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Tooth Sensitivity
If you experience sudden pain when eating ice cream or drinking hot coffee, your enamel may be worn down,, or your gums may be receding. This exposes the inner layer of the tooth, which reacts more strongly to temperature changes.
Why It Matters: Toothpaste for sensitivity or fluoride treatments can help, but a dental exam is needed to rule out deeper issues.
When Should You See a Fort Erie or Ridgeway Dentist for Tooth Pain?
While some minor discomfort may go away on its own, persistent or severe toothaches should always be evaluated by a dental professional. Call Inigo Dentistry if you experience:
- Pain that lasts more than a day or two
- Swelling around the face or gums
- Fever or signs of infection
- Difficulty eating, sleeping, or concentrating
- Sensitivity that doesn’t improve with at-home care
Even if the pain subsides, the underlying issue may still be present and worsen over time.
How Are Toothaches Treated?
Treatment depends on the cause. At your visit to Inigo Dentistry, Dr. Inigo will perform a thorough exam, take digital X-rays if needed, and recommend a personalized treatment plan. Common solutions include:
- Fillings for cavities
- Root canals for infections or deep decay
- Crowns for cracked teeth
- Night guards for bruxism
- Antibiotics or drainage for abscesses
- Tooth extractions in severe cases
We focus on patient comfort and long-term results with every treatment.
Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain—Our Dentists Near Niagara Falls Are Here to Help
At Inigo Dentistry, we believe that pain is your body’s way of signaling a deeper issue, and we’re here to help you find relief. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden toothache or chronic discomfort, our experienced dental team will get to the root of the problem and help restore your smile.
We welcome patients from Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, Welland, Fort Erie, Ridgeway, and nearby Ontario communities.
To schedule your dental appointment in Ontario, call our Fort Erie office at 905-871-2903 or our Ridgeway office at 905-894-5555 today. Relief is just a call away.