Pain is the “emotional and physical response to a real or perceived noxious stimulus”. What does this mean?
It means that everyone perceives pain differently. Some people say they have a high pain threshold, whilst others admit to feeling pain more than some.
Whatever category a patient falls into- this pain is real, and it needs to be addressed.
Dental pain ranks as one of the worst pains that the human body can dish out.
Dental pain can come in many forms; it can be due to;
- Tooth sensitivity
- Dental abscesses
- Cracked teeth
- Gum pain
- Tooth ligament pain
- Sinus pain
- Tension headaches
- Jaw joint pain (TMJ)
- Myofascial pain (face and chewing muscles)
- Neuralgias and nerve pains
- Phantom and referred pain
As you can see, there are many different ways that a patient may present to the dentist.
Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of pain relief. Without knowing what is causing the pain, the wrong treatment may be administered.
Accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of pain relief. Without knowing what is causing the pain, the wrong treatment may be administered.
Our dentists pride themselves on accurate and thorough diagnoses so we can be sure that you receive the best treatment.
Pain relief may come in many forms; these are some of the treatments that may aid in reducing pain
Pain relief may come in many forms; these are some of the treatments that may aid in reducing pain
- Local anaesthetic
- Emergency draining of infections
- Antibiotic therapy
- Desensitizing toothpastes
- Muscle exercises
- Medication for sinus pain
- Extraction of troublesome teeth
- Muscle massage
- Pain medication such as paracetamol, codeine and ibuprofen
If you are experiencing dental pain, please call us immediately on 02 9488 7676.
frequently asked questions
Dental pain can be caused by various issues, including tooth sensitivity, dental abscesses, cracked teeth, gum pain, tooth ligament pain, sinus pain, tension headaches, TMJ (jaw joint) pain, myofascial pain, neuralgias, and referred or phantom pain. A thorough examination is required to determine the exact cause.
Our dentists perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical exam, X-rays, and patient history. Accurate diagnosis is essential to provide the right treatment for pain relief.
Treatment depends on the diagnosis but may include local anaesthesia, emergency drainage of infections, antibiotic therapy, desensitising toothpaste, muscle exercises, medication for sinus pain, tooth extractions, pain medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen, or muscle massage.
Over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage pain temporarily. However, it is essential to see a dentist to address the root cause of the pain for long-term relief.
We aim to see patients experiencing dental pain as soon as possible and prioritise urgent cases where we can. While immediate or same-day appointments are not always available, our team will do their best to schedule you at the earliest opportunity. After-hours care may be provided in exceptional emergency situations. Please call us to discuss your symptoms and arrange the next available appointment.
If you experience a dental emergency outside our regular hours, please contact our clinic and leave a message so our team can respond as soon as possible. In severe cases—such as uncontrolled bleeding, significant swelling, or trauma—seek immediate medical attention at your nearest hospital. We will arrange an appointment at the earliest available time to provide appropriate dental care.