Tooth pain can be confusing, especially because it doesn’t always feel the same from person to person. Sometimes it’s sharp and sudden, other times it’s dull and lingering, and in some cases it comes and goes without a clear trigger.

What many people don’t realize is that different types of tooth pain can point to different underlying issues. Understanding what you’re feeling can help you know when it’s time to seek care—and when you shouldn’t wait.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common types of tooth pain and what they might be telling you.

Historically, dentists provided ‘silver’ fillings made of amalgam mixtures of metal, but today, most offer a more lifelike solution utilizing customizable, biocompatible composite resin instead.

Thankfully, contemporary restorations often last just as long as their metallic counterparts, but that doesn’t mean they’re invincible. They can eventually wear down and become destabilized or become dislodged if you sustain an injury. If you’ve had an emergency and lost a filling, read on to learn about 4 steps to take to get help as quickly as possible!