Severe Toothache — Same-Day Relief in Scarsdale
Throbbing, sharp or constant tooth pain almost always means infection or nerve damage. Walk in and we’ll get you out of pain today.
What you’re feeling
Severe toothache typically presents as one or more of: throbbing pain that wakes you up, sharp pain when biting, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers more than a few seconds, pain that radiates to the jaw or ear, or a constant dull ache that won’t go away with over-the-counter painkillers.
Is it a dental emergency?
Yes — if any of the below apply, do not wait until Monday:
- Pain bad enough to interrupt sleep, work or eating
- Swelling in the gum, cheek or jaw
- Fever, bad taste in mouth, or pus around the tooth
- Pain that’s lasted more than 24–48 hours
- Pain after a recent dental procedure
Before you arrive
- Take ibuprofen (200–600 mg) if not contraindicated.
- Rinse with warm salt water.
- Cold compress on the outside of the cheek.
- Avoid hot, cold and sugary foods on that side.
- Do not place aspirin on the gum.
- Book an appointment online so we can prepare for your arrival.
How we treat it
Treatment depends on the cause. After a quick exam and digital X-ray, we’ll typically do one of:
- Drainage of infection + antibiotics for an abscess
- Pulp therapy or root canal start for an infected nerve
- Temporary filling for a deep cavity, with permanent restoration scheduled
- Crown adjustment or recement if the pain comes from a failed restoration
- Extraction if the tooth cannot be saved
What it costs
Most emergency toothache visits — exam, X-ray and same-day pain relief — fall in the $150–$400 range before insurance. Specific procedures (root canal, extraction, crown) are quoted in writing before any treatment begins. We accept most PPO insurance plans and offer financing.
Toothache FAQs
What causes severe toothache?
Most often: an infected nerve, deep cavity reaching the nerve, abscess, cracked tooth, gum infection, or trauma. Sharp throbbing pain almost always needs urgent treatment.
Can a toothache be a dental emergency?
Yes. Pain that wakes you up, throbs constantly, or comes with swelling or fever is a dental emergency. Untreated infections can spread.
What pain reliever works best?
Ibuprofen (200–600 mg) works best for dental pain because it reduces inflammation. You can alternate with acetaminophen. Never put aspirin on the gum.
How quickly can you treat me?
Most walk-ins are seen within 15 minutes during open hours. Same-day relief is the standard.
How much does it cost?
Most emergency toothache visits fall in the $150–$400 range before insurance. We quote specific procedures in writing before treatment.