Why Does Toothache Come and Go?
Toothache that comes and goes can feel confusing. Even unsettling.
You’re fine for hours. Then—out of nowhere—a sharp twinge stops you mid-sip. A pause. A breath. And then it fades again.
Easy to ignore, right?
But here’s the quiet truth: on-and-off tooth pain is usually your body nudging you. Not shouting yet. Just saying, something isn’t quite right in here.
When the pain settles, most people hope it’s over. That’s understandable. But in many cases, the cause is still there. Waiting. Slowly changing.
What’s really happening inside the tooth during a Toothache?
Quick note. A tooth isn’t just a solid block.
Inside, there’s a living centre. Nerves. Blood vessels. Sensitive stuff. When that nerve gets irritated, pain shows up. Sometimes loudly. Sometimes in flashes.
Toothache that comes and goes is often linked to:
- Early tooth decay reaching the sensitive inner layer
- A tiny crack that only hurts when you bite a certain way
- A loose or worn filling letting hot or cold sneak closer to the nerve
- Gum irritation that flares when plaque builds up
Here’s what’s tricky.
The pain often needs a trigger. Cold water. Hot tea. Something sweet. Pressure from chewing. Once that trigger goes away, the pain eases. But the issue itself hasn’t packed up and left.
It’s just quieter for now.
A situation we hear all the time
Imagine this.
Patient Meera comes in saying, “It’s strange—it doesn’t hurt all the time.” Cold drinks caused a quick zing. Biting on one side felt uncomfortable. Then… nothing. For days.
Turns out, it was a small cavity. Early stage. Easy to treat. She was relieved she didn’t wait.
Contrast that with James.
Same symptoms. He waited. The pain came and went for months. When it finally stayed, it stayed loud. Infection had set in. Treatment took longer. More appointments. More discomfort.
That’s the difference timing makes.
Pain that comes and goes isn’t harmless. It’s often an early warning. And honestly, that’s the best time to act.
A few key things worth remembering
If you remember nothing else, remember this:
- On-off toothache usually means nerve irritation, not just “sensitive teeth”
- Hot, cold, sweet foods or biting pressure often trigger it
- When pain stops, the cause almost never fixes itself
- Early dental care is usually simpler and more comfortable
- Pain that wakes you at night, lasts longer, or comes with swelling needs prompt attention
Short checks like these can help you decide whether to monitor closely—or book that appointment now.
Common thoughts that delay care
We hear these a lot. You might recognise one.
“The pain went away, so it must be fine.”
Often, the nerve has just calmed down temporarily.
“It’s probably sensitivity—I’ll switch toothpaste.”
Sensitive toothpaste can help mild sensitivity. It won’t fix decay, cracks, or infections.
“I’ll wait until it really hurts.”
That usually means more complex treatment later. Earlier is kinder. To your tooth—and often your wallet.
If you’re unsure, getting it checked is almost always the safer choice.
FAQs we’re often asked about Tootaches
- Is toothache that comes and goes an emergency?
Not always. But it shouldn’t be ignored. Frequent pain, strong pain, or swelling means call a dentist soon. - Why does hot or cold make it worse?
Temperature changes irritate the nerve when there’s decay, a crack, or exposed dentin under the enamel. - Can this kind of toothache go away on its own?
The pain might fade, but the cause usually stays—and can worsen over time. - What if the pain eases before my appointment?
Keep the appointment. Brush gently. Avoid chewing on that side. Skip very hot, cold, or sweet foods until you’re checked.
Ready to get it looked at?
If your toothache keeps coming and going and you want clear answers—not guesses—you can book an appointment with Bridge Dental and Cosmetic Studio in Isleworth.