18555 N 79th Ave Suite A-103
Glendale, AZ 85308-8370
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When Talking with Us About Pain, Make Sure You Are Specific

Posted on 9/15/2026 by Dr. Michael Allard

Elderly woman sitting at home, holding her jaw and grimacing in pain, indicating a dental emergency.

Let's talk about tooth pain. We know it's no fun, and we want to help you feel better as quickly as possible. To do that, it's super important for us to understand exactly what's going on. Think of it like this: if you tell a mechanic your car is making a noise, they need more information than just "a noise" to figure out what's wrong and fix it. The same goes for your mouth! The more details you can give us about your discomfort, the better we can pinpoint the problem and get you on the road to recovery. Let's explore some ways to help us help you.

What Does the Pain Feel Like?

Instead of just saying "it hurts," try to describe the sensation. Is it a sharp, stabbing pain? A dull, throbbing ache? Does it feel like pressure? Is it a burning sensation? Is the pain constant, or does it come and go? Describing the type of pain is a crucial first step. For example, a sharp pain when you bite down might indicate a cracked tooth, while a throbbing ache could be a sign of an infection.

Where Exactly Does It Hurt?

Be as specific as possible about the location of the pain. Can you point to the exact tooth or area that's bothering you? Does the pain radiate to your jaw, ear, or temple? Sometimes, pain can feel like it's coming from one place when it's actually originating somewhere else. Accurate location information helps us narrow down the possibilities.

When Does the Pain Occur?

Timing is everything. When did the pain start? Did it begin suddenly, or did it gradually get worse over time? What makes the pain better or worse? Does it hurt when you chew, drink hot or cold liquids, or lie down? Is it worse at night? Keeping track of when the pain occurs and what triggers it can provide valuable clues.

What Have You Already Tried?

Have you taken any over-the-counter pain relievers? Have you tried using a cold compress or a warm compress? Have you changed your oral care routine in any way? Letting us know what you've already done to manage the pain helps us avoid recommending something that hasn't worked for you. This also helps us understand the severity of the problem.

Think About Recent Changes

Have you recently had any dental work done, such as restoration dentistry? Have you experienced any trauma to your mouth? Have you noticed any changes in your teeth or gums, such as swelling, bleeding, or sensitivity? Any recent changes in your oral health could be related to your current pain.

Your Oral Care Routine

Tell us about your daily oral care habits. How often do you brush and floss? What kind of toothpaste and toothbrush do you use? Do you use mouthwash? Do you have any habits like grinding your teeth or chewing on ice? These details provide insight into the overall health of your mouth and could be contributing to your tooth pain.

By providing us with detailed information about your pain, you're helping us make an accurate diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan. Remember, we're here to listen and help you get back to feeling your best!

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Arrowhead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 18555 N 79th Ave, Suite A-103, Glendale, AZ 85308-8370 • (623) 738-2564 • arrowheadoralsurgery.com • 10/7/2026 • Key Phrases: Dental Implants Glendale AZ •