Emergency Dental Care
Toothache Treatment
A toothache that won't quit is your body telling you something needs attention now. Call us at 540-443-2659 and we'll work to see you the same day.
Reviewed by Dr. Sang Kim, DMD — Updated April 2026
Why does my tooth hurt so much?
Toothaches have a way of turning an ordinary day into a miserable one. The pain can range from a dull, constant ache to a sharp, throbbing sensation that radiates through your jaw and into your ear. At Bridgewater Dental Center, Dr. Sang Kim sees patients from across the Shenandoah Valley dealing with tooth pain, and the most common causes include:
- Deep decay that has reached the nerve inside the tooth
- A cracked or fractured tooth that exposes sensitive inner layers
- An abscess or infection building pressure at the root
- Gum disease causing inflammation around the tooth
- A damaged or lost filling leaving the tooth unprotected
What to do while you wait for your appointment
We know you may not be able to get to our Bridgewater office the moment the pain starts. While you wait, these steps can help manage discomfort:
- Rinse gently with warm salt water to reduce bacteria and soothe irritated tissue
- Take over-the-counter ibuprofen as directed for pain and swelling — avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek, twenty minutes on and twenty minutes off
- Avoid very hot, very cold, or sugary foods that could aggravate the nerve
When should I call right away?
Some toothaches signal a situation that shouldn't wait. Call us immediately at 540-443-2659 if you experience pain accompanied by fever, swelling in your face or jaw, a foul taste in your mouth, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. These symptoms may indicate a dental abscess that requires prompt treatment to prevent the infection from spreading.
How we treat toothaches
Dr. Kim will start with a thorough examination and digital X-rays to pinpoint the exact source of your pain. Treatment depends on the cause. A cavity that hasn't reached the nerve can often be resolved with a filling. When decay or a crack has exposed the pulp, a root canal removes the infected tissue and saves the tooth. In cases where the tooth is too damaged to restore, a gentle extraction may be the best path to relief. If dental anxiety is a concern, we offer sedation options to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Don't wait it out
A toothache rarely resolves on its own. What starts as mild sensitivity can progress into a serious infection if left untreated. Patients throughout Bridgewater, Harrisonburg, and Rockingham County trust our team to provide fast, compassionate emergency care. If you don't have insurance, our Virginia Dental Club membership offers discounts on restorative and emergency procedures. Call us today or visit us at 100 Parkside Dr., Bridgewater, VA 22812.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my toothache worse at night?+
When you lie down, blood flow to your head increases and puts more pressure on the sensitive nerve inside the tooth. This is why toothaches often feel worse at bedtime. Propping your head up with an extra pillow and taking ibuprofen can help until you can see us in Bridgewater.
Can a toothache go away on its own?+
Sometimes the pain may temporarily lessen, but the underlying problem — whether it's decay, a crack, or an infection — will not heal without treatment. Delaying care usually leads to more extensive and costly treatment later.
How quickly can I be seen for a toothache in Bridgewater?+
We prioritize patients in pain and work to offer same-day appointments whenever possible. Call us at 540-443-2659 and we'll do our best to get you in right away.
Will I need a root canal for my toothache?+
Not necessarily. A root canal is only needed when the nerve inside the tooth is infected or irreversibly damaged. Dr. Kim will take X-rays and examine the tooth to determine the least invasive treatment that will resolve your pain.
Is it safe to take pain medication before my appointment?+
Yes. Over-the-counter ibuprofen taken as directed is safe and can help manage pain and swelling before your visit. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums, as it can burn the tissue.
How much does toothache treatment cost without insurance?+
Treatment costs vary depending on the cause. Our Virginia Dental Club membership provides discounts on emergency and restorative procedures for patients without insurance. We'll always discuss your options and costs before beginning treatment.
Ready When You Are
Let's write the next chapter
of your smile's story.
Schedule an appointment online, or give us a call. We're accepting new patients of every age — and we'll walk you through every step.