If swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow, or bleeding will not stop, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.
Toothache Relief in Seattle
A toothache can come from a cavity that has reached the inner tooth, a cracked tooth, an inflamed gum, or something wedged between the teeth. Dr. Jaime Lee finds the cause and treats it at Smile Art, Suite 1030 in the Cabrini Medical Tower on First Hill, as soon as the same day.
What kinds of tooth pain need a call today?
Pain that throbs, lingers after hot or cold, wakes you at night, or comes with swelling or a bad taste deserves a same-day call. Brief sensitivity that fades in a few seconds is still worth mentioning at your next visit. Describe what you notice when you call, and our team will schedule you accordingly.
What can I do until I see Dr. Lee?
For first-aid steps, we share the American Dental Association's guidance, quoted word for word:
"For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between the teeth. Do not put aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissues."
"When you have a dental emergency, it's important to visit your dentist or an emergency room as soon as possible."
Source: American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, "Dental Emergencies".
What usually causes a toothache?
The most common cause is decay that has worked its way toward the nerve inside the tooth. A cracked tooth, a worn filling, gum inflammation, or a sinus problem pressing on the upper back teeth can also cause pain. Because several causes feel alike, an exam is the reliable way to tell them apart.
What happens after the first visit?
If the tooth needs a filling or root canal, Dr. Lee may complete it the same day or schedule it soon after, depending on the tooth and your time. She also checks the neighboring teeth so a second toothache doesn't follow the first.
How does Dr. Lee treat a toothache?
Dr. Lee examines the tooth, tests how it responds, and takes X-rays if she needs to see inside it. Depending on the cause, treatment may be a filling, a root canal, treatment for the gums, or removing the tooth, and she explains the choice before starting. Her first goal is to ease the pain and protect the tooth.
Related care: Dental fillings, Root canal treatment, Tooth extractions.
How much does an emergency visit cost?
The cost depends on the exam, any X-rays, and the treatment the tooth needs. Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans, and our team will gladly verify your benefits before your appointment. For out-of-pocket expenses, we offer straightforward financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and LendingClub.
PPO insurance
Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.
Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.
Coverage depends on the treatment provided and your individual PPO plan.
Third-party financing
Available through:
- CareCredit
- Cherry
- LendingClub
Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.
Frequently asked questions
Can a toothache go away on its own?
Pain can ease for a while even when the cause remains, so it is best to have the tooth examined.
Should I go to the ER for a toothache?
Call Smile Art first. If swelling affects your breathing or swallowing, or bleeding will not stop, go to an emergency room.
Can I be seen today?
Our team schedules emergency visits as soon as the same day. Call (206) 325-7200.
What if my toothache starts after hours?
Call the same number to reach our after-hours line. Dr. Lee screens your concern by phone and plans your next step.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.