Toothache is pain in and around the teeth and jaws. You can feel toothache in many ways. It can come and go or be constant. The pain can also be mild or severe. It might feel sharp and start suddenly. It can be worse at night, particularly when you’re lying down.
Causes
- Tooth decay
- A dental abscess
- A cracked or damaged tooth
- A loose or broken filling
- An infection
- Problems with your braces
- Gum disease
- Grinding your teeth
Signs you should see a dentist
- Toothache that lasts more than 2 days
- Toothache that does not go away when you take painkillers
- Toothache with a high temperature, pain when you bite, red gums, or a bad taste in your mouth
- Your cheek or jaw is swollen
How to find relief
Do
- Take painkillers – a pharmacist can advise you
- Use a pain-relieving gel for your mouth
- Try rinsing your mouth with salt water
- Eat soft foods and try to avoid chewing with the sore tooth
- Use a soft toothbrush and avoid flossing around the sore tooth
Don’t
- Do not eat foods that are sweet, very hot or very cold
- Do not smoke – it can make some dental problems worse
How to prevent toothache
- Have regular dental check-ups
- Cut down on sugary foods and drinks
- Brush your teeth twice a day for about 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between your teeth using floss or an interdental brush every day
See a dentist if you have a toothache that lasts more than 2 days. They can treat the cause of the pain and stop any problems from worsening.
Adapted from Toothache
