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Why a Disappearing Toothache Isn’t Always a Good Sign

September 10, 2025

Man smiling after his emergency dental appointment

If you were being haunted by a nagging toothache, you might be excited that it finally went away. You seemingly got the relief that you needed, but did you know this may not be the best news? While your discomfort may be gone, the cause of the problem may still be lingering in your smile. Keep reading to learn why it might’ve disappeared and what to do if you have a toothache.

Why Did My Toothache Suddenly Vanish?

Oral health issues cannot heal on their own. If your toothache is from a cavity or infection, then it can only worsen until you visit your dentist. When they are left untreated, they might even cause enough damage to the nerve of your tooth, preventing it from sending any signals. This can make it easier for bacteria to spread to nearby teeth and gums, leading to even more problems.

Do I Still Need to Visit the Dentist?

In short, yes! Finding out the root issue of your toothache can help avoid any more complications. As was briefly mentioned above, if you have a dental infection, then it can spread to the rest of your smile and soft tissues. Scheduling an appointment as soon as possible can help potentially save your affected tooth and preserve your grin.

The best way to get an emergency visit is by calling your dental practice. Letting the front desk team know your situation, they can see you as soon as possible and give you any advice you need to protect your oral health until then.

What Can I Do to Protect My Smile?

A great way to avoid needing urgent dental care is to be proactive with your teeth. Here are simple tips you can follow that’ll help set you up for success:

  • Keep up with your dental hygiene. Brush twice and floss at least once a day to remove any harmful bacteria.
  • Have semi-annual visits with your dentist. Checkups and cleanings are great for monitoring any changes in your mouth and getting rid of hardened plaque.
  • Follow a balanced diet and limit how much sugar you eat. Having too much of it can increase your risk of decay.
  • Use a mouthguard or other safety equipment when playing a sport or activity where you have a risk of facial blows.

About the Practice

At Columbia Healthy Smiles, you benefit from the skilled expertise of Dr. Philip Batson and Dr. Elizabeth Abe. Our team understands how a dental emergency can catch you off guard, so we are proud to help you through these situations. By giving us a call, we can get you scheduled as soon as possible and get you the relief that you deserve using state-of-the-art technology. If you were dealing with a toothache that suddenly disappeared, schedule an appointment or call our office at (573) 875-7071.