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Toothaches have a way of taking over your life because once they reach their peak, they’re almost impossible to ignore. So, you can be forgiven for feeling relieved when the pain finally disappears. After all, that means the problem has taken care of itself, right? Well, not so much. In many cases, a toothache that suddenly goes away isn’t a good sign. Keep reading to learn about the anatomy of tooth pain and why you should still see your dentist if the discomfort disappears.
Why Do Toothaches Happen?
Each of your teeth is comprised of three layers: the hard outer enamel, the softer dentin underneath, and the pulp at the center. Tooth pain usually means something is irritating or damaging the nerve inside the pulp. Common causes often include deep cavities, cracked or broken teeth, gum disease, or infection or abscess.
When the nerves of your teeth are inflamed, they send pain signals to your brain to get your attention. That discomfort is your body’s way of saying, “Something is wrong here.”
What Happens When Tooth Pain Suddenly Stops?
If a toothache was strong and then suddenly fades, it may mean the nerve inside the tooth has died. Without a living nerve, the tooth can no longer feel pain, but the infection or damage can stick around, silently spreading and causing more damage. If left untreated, this can lead to facial or gum swelling, bone loss around the tooth, and even tooth loss in extreme cases.
So, while it feels like the problem “fixed itself,” the situation may actually be more serious.
What Signs of Tooth Trouble Should You Look For?
Even if you no longer feel pain, watch for other symptoms, such as:
- A pimple-like bump on your gums
- A bad taste or odor in your mouth that won’t go away
- Swelling near a once-painful tooth or in your jaw
- A tooth that looks darker than the others
These can be signs of an infection that needs treatment, usually with a root canal or another restorative procedure.
Why You Should Call Your Dentist Anyway
Any toothache—especially one that was strong and then just stopped—deserves a professional exam. During your visit, your dentist can take X-rays of the affected area and check for signs of issues before offering solutions.
Catching problems early often means simpler, more comfortable treatment and a better chance of keeping your natural tooth, which is always the goal.
If your toothache disappears, think of it as a truce, not a surrender. Reaching out to your dentist now can help prevent a small issue from turning into a dental emergency later on.
About the Author
Dr. Karen Ho has spent nearly 20 years helping Campbell patients enjoy healthier, more comfortable smiles. After studying physiology at UC Davis, she earned her dental degree from the University of the Pacific. She has advanced training in biomimetic dentistry and is a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of Biomimetic Dentistry. Call (408) 558-9444 to schedule an emergency exam at Karen Ho DDS, or visit our website to learn more.