Tooth pain that comes and goes can be easy to ignore, especially if it fades after a few minutes or only happens when you chew. However, intermittent tooth pain often means something is happening beneath the surface. For Denver patients, the cause may be a cracked tooth, deep decay, an irritated nerve, or an older filling or crown that is no longer sealing properly.
 

At Barotz Dental, we look beyond the symptom and focus on identifying the source of the discomfort. The right treatment depends on whether the tooth’s structure is damaged, the nerve is affected, or both.
 

When Tooth Pain May Point to a Crown

A dental crown may be needed when the outer structure of the tooth is weakened but the nerve inside the tooth is still healthy. Crowns are often used to restore strength, function, and appearance after damage or decay.
 

You may need a crown if your tooth pain happens when biting down, if a tooth has a large filling, or if part of the tooth has cracked or worn down. In these cases, a crown can help protect the remaining tooth from further damage while allowing you to chew more comfortably.
 

When a Root Canal May Be Needed

A root canal is usually recommended when the nerve inside the tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen when decay reaches deep into the tooth, a crack extends toward the nerve, or trauma causes internal damage.
 

Signs that may point to the need for a root canal include lingering pain after hot or cold foods, spontaneous toothaches, swelling near the gums, or pain that wakes you up at night. Some patients also notice that pain comes and goes for weeks before becoming more constant.
 

Why the Difference Matters

A crown and a root canal treat different problems. A crown protects and rebuilds the outside of the tooth, while a root canal treats infection or inflammation inside the tooth. In some cases, both may be needed. After a root canal, a crown is often recommended to protect the tooth from fracture, especially on back teeth that handle heavy chewing pressure.
 

Choosing the right treatment starts with a thorough exam. We may evaluate your bite, take digital images, check for cracks, and test how the tooth responds to temperature or pressure. This helps us determine whether the tooth can be restored with a crown or whether the nerve needs treatment first.
 

Symptoms Denver Patients Should Not Ignore

Tooth pain that fades is not always a sign that the problem is gone. It may simply mean the tooth is reacting off and on as the damage progresses.
 

Common warning signs include:

• Pain when chewing or biting down
• Sensitivity that lingers after hot or cold drinks
• A cracked, chipped, or worn tooth
• Swelling, tenderness, or a pimple-like bump on the gums
• Pain around an old filling or crown
• Tooth discomfort that keeps returning

If you notice these symptoms, it is best to schedule an exam before the tooth becomes harder to save.
 

How We Approach Tooth Pain at Barotz Dental

We understand that dental pain can be stressful, especially when you are unsure whether you need a root canal, a crown, or another treatment. Our goal is to give you clear answers and explain your options before moving forward.
 

At our Denver dental office, we focus on saving natural teeth whenever possible and recommending treatment that fits the condition of the tooth. By addressing the problem early, we can often help prevent more serious damage, reduce discomfort, and protect your long-term oral health.
 

If you have tooth pain that comes and goes, contact Barotz Dental in Denver, Colorado by calling (303) 595-4994.