We’ve all had them. That throbbing, stabbing, or dull ache in your mouth that starts off as “meh” and escalates to “make it stop!” Toothaches are nature’s way of getting your attention and not in a gentle, whispery way either.
If you’re reading this from Saskatoon or nearby communities like Clavet, Beaver Creek, or Bradwell, and you’re currently clutching your cheek in agony (or Googling in a panic), this one’s for you. Let’s break down why toothaches happen, what you can do about them, and how our team at Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon can turn that grimace into a grin, often with the help of bonded fillings, advanced techniques, and some good old fashioned dental wisdom.
What Causes a Toothache – It’s More Than Just a “Bad Tooth”
Toothaches are like the dental version of a check engine light. They’re rarely the problem themselves, they’re the symptom of something deeper going on. In most cases, it’s one of the following culprits:
Cavities That Finally Made Themselves Known
Tiny holes, big drama. Cavities are the most common reason for tooth pain in Saskatoon (and the rest of the tooth-having world). They can lurk unnoticed for months, until one day, they hit a nerve. Literally.
Exposed Tooth Roots
Gums recede. It happens. Sometimes it’s genetic, sometimes it’s due to overbrushing, sometimes it’s age. But once the roots are out in the open, they can be extremely sensitive, especially to hot or cold.
Abscesses and Infections
If your toothache is keeping you up at night or you’ve noticed swelling, a bad taste in your mouth, or even a little fever, you might be dealing with a dental abscess. This is not the time to tough it out, this is the time to call your dentist. (Like, now.)
Cracked or Broken Teeth
You might not even remember biting down on that rogue popcorn kernel. But cracks happen and they hurt. Sometimes the pain comes and goes depending on the pressure or temperature.
What to Do When a Toothache Strikes
Before you race to our dental chair in Rosewood, there are a few things you can do to temporarily relieve tooth pain—emphasis on “temporarily.”
- Rinse With Warm Salt Water
Classic, but effective. It helps clean the area and can reduce inflammation. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish gently.
- Try a Cold Compress
Especially if there’s swelling. Wrap a cold pack or a bag of peas in a towel and apply it to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes. It won’t fix the cause, but it’ll take the edge off.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help, but please don’t crush them and stick them directly on your gums (old wives’ tale = bad idea).
- Call Your Saskatoon Dentist (That’s Us!)
Ultimately, the only real fix is a visit to your dentist. At Boulevard Dental, we prioritize urgent care for patients dealing with acute toothaches. Whether you’re from Saskatoon, Clavet, Beaver Creek, Bradwell—or beyond—we’re ready to help.
How We Repair a Toothache Caused By a Cavity
Let’s say we discover your toothache is caused by a cavity. What’s next? Here’s what the Boulevard Dental experience typically looks like:
Step 1: Digital Imaging and Diagnosis
We don’t guess, we scan. Using modern digital X-rays and intraoral cameras, we pinpoint exactly where the decay is and how deep it goes.
Step 2: Gentle Numbing (No Medieval Tools Here)
Gone are the days of fearsome needles. We use a combination of topical anesthetic and ultra-precise techniques to keep the entire process comfortable. Some patients even tell us they didn’t feel a thing (and we didn’t bribe them to say that).
Step 3: Removing the Decay
Using advanced tools and a light touch, we gently clean out the decayed portion of your tooth. It’s like dental spring cleaning.
Step 4: Bonded Filling Placement
This is where science meets art. We use high-quality composite resin to match the natural color of your tooth. It’s shaped, smoothed, and cured with a special light, bonding directly to your tooth structure for long-lasting protection and a natural look.
Step 5: Polish and Perfect
We check your bite, make final tweaks, and polish the tooth so it looks and feels just like the original. Sometimes better.
Why We Love Bonded Fillings (And You Should Too)
Bonded fillings, also called composite or tooth-coloured fillings, are our go-to for most cavities at Boulevard Dental. They’re a standard solution for both kids and adults. Why?
- They Look Great: Seriously, you won’t be able to spot them.
- They Bond Strongly to Tooth Structure: They support the natural tooth rather than weaken it.
- They’re Mercury-Free: No silver fillings here. Just clean, safe materials.
- They Can Be Done in One Appointment: In and out with a better bite.
When It’s More Than Just a Filling: Root Canals and Crowns
Sometimes, toothaches don’t just knock politely, they kick the door down. If decay or trauma makes its way deep into the inner pulp of the tooth (that’s where all the sensitive nerves and blood vessels live), a simple filling won’t cut it. This is when the words “root canal” might come up.
But before you sprint out of the dental office in a panic, let’s set the record straight: root canals have come a long way, and at Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon, they’re about as scary as a nap with spa music playing.
What Is a Root Canal, Really?
A root canal is a treatment designed to save your natural tooth, not remove it. During the procedure, we carefully clean out the infected or damaged pulp, disinfect the inside of the tooth, and fill it with a special material that seals it up tight. Think of it like an internal reboot for your tooth.
At Boulevard Dental, our gentle and efficient approach means:
-
Minimal discomfort thanks to modern anesthetics and techniques
-
Efficient treatment times (no drawn-out drama)
-
Preservation of your natural smile, so you avoid extraction and tooth loss
It’s not only safe, it’s often the hero that saves the day (and the tooth).
Why a Crown Follows the Canal
Once the root canal is complete, the tooth itself is technically stable, but it can be more brittle. That’s why we often recommend a dental crown afterward. Think of it as armour for your tooth, designed to protect it from biting forces, pressure, and further damage.
Our crowns at Boulevard Dental are:
-
Custom-fit and shaped to your bite
-
Tooth-coloured to blend beautifully with your smile
-
Durable enough to last for years to come
-
Crafted right here in Saskatoon, using advanced materials and design
Whether your crown is going on a molar or a front tooth, we make sure it looks natural and feels great, so you can chew, smile, and get back to life without worrying about your tooth ever again.
Root Canal Symptoms to Watch For
Not sure if you need a root canal? Here are a few red flags to watch for:
-
Persistent, deep toothache (especially when biting down)
-
Sensitivity that lingers long after hot or cold exposure
-
Swelling near the gums or jawline
-
A darkened or discoloured tooth
-
A pimple-like bump near the gumline (yes, that’s a thing)
When to Book Your Dental Appointment For a Toothache
Even if the pain comes and goes, that doesn’t mean it’s gone. We’ve seen patients from across Saskatoon—and even as far as Kenaston—who’ve waited a bit too long. Trust us, it’s always better to catch the issue early. If you’re experiencing any of the following, contact Boulevard Dental ASAP:
- Sharp or throbbing tooth pain
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet
- Swollen gums or face
- Bad taste in your mouth
- A tooth that feels “off” when you bite
Preventing the Pain: How to Avoid Future Toothaches
Sure, we love seeing you. But we’d rather see you for a check-up than an emergency. Here’s how to keep those teeth out of trouble:
- Brush twice a day (yes, really)
- Floss daily (we can tell when you don’t)
- Visit Boulevard Dental every 6 months
- Watch your sugar intake (your teeth aren’t fans of pop)
- Use a fluoride toothpaste (Saskatoon’s water is good, but every bit helps)
And if you’re in Clavet, Beaver Creek, or Bradwell, yes, we’re worth the short drive to the Rosewood neighbourhood.
What Makes Boulevard Dental the Go-To Dentist for Toothaches in Saskatoon
We’re not your average dentist’s office. Boulevard Dental is where modern care meets local charm. Here’s what you’ll love about us:
- Flexible Appointments: We work with your schedule.
- Friendly, Experienced Team: We talk like humans, not robots.
- Comfort-First Philosophy: From cozy chairs to TVs above the dental chair.
- Clear Communication: You’ll know what’s happening and why.
- Saskatoon Proud: We love this city and the surrounding communities.
Whether you’re a busy parent from a surrounding community, a university student in downtown Saskatoon, or someone who just wants to chew without wincing, we’re here to help.
What Our Patients Saying About Our Oral Care in Saskatoon
“ Whether it’s an emergency, or preventative care I can confidently recommend Boulevard Dental in Rosewood to anyone who wants the best care for their oral health.”
— Kelsie McPartlin, Saskatoon
“ These people are amazing! Feeling so much better. They helped me with emergency extraction and I already feel better. Thank you for you time.
— Lynnsay Rabbitskin, Saskatoon
Toothaches Are a Pain
Literally and figuratively. But they’re also a reminder to pay attention to what your body’s telling you. Whether it’s a small cavity or something more complex, our team at Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon’s Rosewood neighbourhood has you covered.
We help patients across Saskatoon, Clavet, Beaver Creek, Bradwell and beyond feel better, smile brighter, and chew without wincing.
So don’t wait. Book your appointment today and let’s take that ache out of your life. Call or book online now.