Tooth Pain & Infection in Newtown, PA
When you're hurting, we get you in. Then we figure out the cause — and the right next step.
Get the Pain Stopped. Then Fix the Cause.
Common Causes of Severe Tooth Pain
Tooth pain can come from many sources. The most common include:
- Decay that has reached or is close to the nerve
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Dental abscess (a localized infection)
- Gum infection or advanced periodontal disease
- Sinus pressure that mimics tooth pain in the upper jaw
- Recent dental work that's settling in
- Bruxism — clenching or grinding, often related to airway issues
How We Diagnose the Cause of Tooth Pain
Somebody comes in with a swollen cheek, and it's because of an infection — the first thing we do is take an X-ray. We'll do a clinical exam, check for sensitivity to cold and pressure, and see what the X-ray shows. Most of the time, the cause becomes clear within a few minutes. From there, we make a plan.
Antibiotics First If There's Infection
If there's significant infection or swelling, we'll typically start you on antibiotics before any other treatment. The antibiotic helps reduce the infection so the area can be treated more comfortably and safely. If the cause is decay reaching the nerve, the antibiotic is a bridge to definitive treatment.
Root Canal Cases Referred to an Endodontist
Dr. Bob does not perform Root Canals himself. If your tooth needs a Root Canal, we refer you to a trusted Endodontist — a specialist who does root canals every day with the latest technology. After the Endodontist completes the Root Canal, we take care of the restorative end afterward to get the form and function back. Usually that means a CEREC Same-Day Crown to protect the treated tooth.
When the Answer Is an Extraction
Sometimes a tooth is too damaged to save. If extraction is the right call, Dr. Bob handles simple, straightforward extractions in our office. For more complex extractions — broken roots, impacted teeth, surgical extractions — we refer to a trusted oral surgeon. Either way, we'll talk through replacement options, like implants, bridges, dentures so the gap doesn't lead to bigger problems.
What does severe tooth pain mean?
Severe tooth pain is your body's way of telling you something is wrong. Common causes include deep decay that's reached the nerve, an abscess, a cracked tooth, or gum infection. Any tooth pain that doesn't respond to over-the-counter pain medication, or pain accompanied by swelling or fever, needs prompt attention.
How much does tooth pain treatment cost in Newtown, PA?
Cost depends on the cause. An exam and X-ray is usually less than a hundred dollars. Antibiotics are inexpensive. Root canal treatment (referred to an endodontist) is a separate cost from the crown that follows. We are transparent with our fees and walk through what to expect at each step.
Will the antibiotics fix my tooth?
No — antibiotics fight the infection but don't fix the underlying tooth problem. Once the infection is reduced, you'll still need definitive treatment: usually a root canal or extraction. Skipping the dental treatment after antibiotics often means the infection comes back, sometimes worse than before.
How fast can I be seen?
When we have the schedule capacity, we see emergencies the same day. Call us early in the morning if possible — we have more flexibility before the day fills up. If we can't fit you in, we'll help you find another path: an urgent care, an ER, or another dentist who can see you sooner.
Tooth Pain & Infection
➔ Same-day appointments when possible
➔ X-ray and exam to identify the cause
➔ Antibiotics when infection is suspected
➔ Root canal cases referred to a trusted endodontist
Frequently Asked Questions
Why don't you do Root Canals in-office?
Root Canals are best done by an endodontist — a specialist who does them every day with the latest microscopes and equipment. The success rate of specialist-performed Root Canals is excellent, and we trust the local Endodontists we refer to. After the Root Canal, we handle the restoration with a CEREC Crown to protect the treated tooth long-term.What if I can't afford to see a specialist?
Talk to us honestly about your situation. The Endodontists we refer to often have payment plans, and Alphaeon and CareCredit financing are widely accepted. There are also dental schools and community clinics that offer reduced-cost care. We'd rather help you find a path than have you live with infection.Is dental infection dangerous?
It can be. Most dental infections are localized and respond well to antibiotics and treatment. Untreated infections can spread — to the jaw, the sinuses, or rarely to other parts of the body. If you have facial swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing, treat it as urgent. Go to the ER if needed.Can I just take painkillers and wait?
Painkillers can buy you a little time, but they don't address the cause. If the pain is severe or persistent, the underlying problem (decay, infection, abscess) is getting worse while you wait. Earlier treatment is almost always simpler, less expensive, and more comfortable.
The Mouth-Body Connection —
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