Toothache Causes & When to See a Doctor
Toothaches can be incredibly painful, and they often seem to appear out of nowhere. They can make eating, drinking, and even talking difficult. Understanding the causes of toothache and knowing when to seek professional help is crucial for managing this discomfort.
The objective of this blog is to discuss the various causes of toothache, types of pain you may experience, symptoms to watch for, treatment options, prevention methods, and when it’s time to see a dentist. With the right knowledge, you can manage a toothache and prevent future dental problems.
What are the causes and symptoms of toothache?
Toothaches can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from poor oral health to underlying infections. Below is a table outlining common causes of toothache, their descriptions, and the associated symptoms:
Cause | Description | Symptoms |
| Tooth Decay and Cavity Pain | Bacteria break down the enamel, leading to cavities and tooth decay. | Sharp pain when eating or drinking, especially with hot, cold, or sweet foods. |
| Gum Infection and Tooth Pain | Inflammation or infection of the gums (gingivitis, periodontitis). | Gum infection and tooth pain symptoms includes Swelling, bleeding, sensitivity, and pain originating from the gum tissue rather than the tooth itself. |
| Tooth Infection (Abscess) | Untreated cavity or gum disease causing an infection in the tooth pulp. | Tooth infection symptoms include throbbing, intense pain, swelling in the face or jaw, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth. |
| Cracked Teeth | Cracks in teeth that lead to sharp pain when biting or chewing. | Sharp pain when chewing or biting down on the affected tooth. |
| Dental Abscess | Infection in the tooth or gums causes a pocket of pus to form. | Persistent, throbbing pain, swelling, and sometimes fever. |
| Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) | Grinding or clenching teeth, often unconsciously, causes pressure on teeth. | Aching or sharp pain in the teeth and jaw, especially after waking up. |
| Impacted Teeth | Teeth that are unable to emerge properly from the gums, often wisdom teeth. | Pain, swelling, and discomfort, typically in the back of the mouth. |
| Sinus Infection | A sinus infection or sinusitis can lead to referred pain in the upper teeth. | Dull, aching tooth pain, especially in the upper back teeth, is often accompanied by sinus pressure or congestion. |
What are the different types of tooth pain?
Toothaches vary in intensity and nature. The type of pain you're experiencing can offer clues to the underlying cause.
1. Sharp or shooting pain: This type of pain is often caused by a cavity or tooth fracture. It may be triggered when you chew, bite, or consume hot or cold foods and drinks. This kind of pain is usually a sign of nerve involvement.
2. Dull, constant pain: Dull pain can occur from an infection, gum disease, or tooth decay. It's less painful but may last for a longer period of time, signalling a chronic problem.
3. Throbbing pain: Throbbing tooth pain is often linked with an abscess or infection in the tooth. The pain can come and go but tends to worsen over time if left untreated.
4. Sensitivity pain: If you experience pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, this may be a sign of exposed tooth roots or enamel erosion, often caused by tooth decay or gum recession.
What are the effective treatment options for toothache?
Once you've identified the potential cause of your toothache, it's important to consider treatment options. Depending on the cause and severity of your pain, treatments can vary.
What are the Over-the-counter pain relief medications for toothache?
For mild toothaches, over-the-counter pain relievers like Aspirin or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort by reducing pain and inflammation.
- These medications provide temporary relief and can be taken as directed to manage mild to moderate pain.
- Additionally, applying a cold compress to the outside of the mouth near the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain, especially if there is inflammation or swelling in the surrounding tissues.
What are the professional dental treatments for toothache?
If the toothache is due to a cavity, tooth infection, or other serious dental issue, a dentist will need to assess and treat the problem. Toothache causes and treatment can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the pain. Treatment may include
1. Fillings: If the pain is caused by a cavity, the dentist will first remove the decayed portion of the tooth. After that, the cavity is filled with a material such as composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain to restore the tooth’s structure and function. Fillings help prevent further decay and protect the tooth from additional damage.
2. Root Canal: If the pain is caused by an infection deep inside the tooth, typically in the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), a root canal may be required. During a root canal, the dentist will remove the infected pulp, clean the inside of the tooth, and seal it to prevent further infection. This procedure can save the tooth from extraction and restore its function.
3. Tooth Extraction: In cases where a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or infected, and it cannot be restored through a filling or root canal, tooth extraction may be necessary. The dentist will remove the tooth to prevent the infection from spreading and to alleviate pain. After extraction, the dentist may discuss options for replacement, such as implants, bridges, or dentures.
4. Antibiotics: If the toothache is caused by a bacterial infection, such as a gum infection (gingivitis, periodontitis) or an abscess, antibiotics may be prescribed. These medications help reduce the infection and control inflammation before any other dental procedures can be performed. In some cases, antibiotics may be given as a preventive measure after a dental procedure to avoid infection.
What are the simple preventions and remedies for toothache?
Preventing toothaches is always better than treating them. Here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy:
- Brush and floss regularly: This helps prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease.
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks: Reducing sugar intake can minimise the risk of cavities and decay.
- Use fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Regular check-ups allow early detection of potential issues like cavities or gum disease.
- Wear a mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, a custom-made mouthguard can help protect them from damage.
- Rinse with saltwater: A warm saltwater rinse can help reduce inflammation and soothe gum irritation.
When to see a dentist for toothache?
Knowing when to see a dentist for tooth pain is important. You should seek professional care if:
- The pain lasts longer than 1–2 days.
- You have swelling in your face or jaw.
- You experience a high fever or chills.
- The pain is accompanied by a bad taste or foul-smelling breath.
- You cannot eat or drink due to pain.
- You notice a visible injury or crack in your tooth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the reasons for severe tooth pain?
Severe tooth pain reasons include tooth decay, gum infection, abscess, cracked teeth, or nerve damage. These conditions cause inflammation or pressure, leading to intense pain.
2. What are the emergency signs of tooth pain?
Tooth pain emergency signs include severe, constant pain, swelling in the gums or face, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and bleeding from the tooth or gums. These symptoms require immediate dental attention to prevent further complications.
3. How to relieve toothache pain?
To relieve toothache pain, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, apply a cold compress to the affected area, and take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. If pain persists, visit a dentist for proper treatment.
4. Why is toothache worse at night?
Toothache is worse at night because lying down increases blood flow to the head, intensifying the pain. Reduced distractions and less activity at night also make the pain feel more noticeable. Additionally, the body produces less natural pain relief during sleep.
5. How long will a toothache last?
A toothache can last from a few hours to several days, depending on the cause. If the pain persists beyond a couple of days, it is important to see a dentist for proper treatment.
6. Can brushing teeth stop toothache?
Brushing teeth may help reduce discomfort caused by food particles or plaque, but it cannot stop a toothache caused by underlying issues like infection or decay. See a dentist for proper treatment.
7. Can I eat non-veg while having toothache?
It’s best to avoid eating hard or chewy non-veg foods while having a toothache, as they can aggravate the pain. Opt for softer foods that don't put pressure on the affected area.
Smile Without the Ache
Toothaches are a common problem that can range from mild discomfort to severe, throbbing pain. Whether caused by tooth decay, gum infection, or a cracked tooth, understanding the causes and types of toothache is essential for seeking the right treatment. If the pain persists or worsens, it’s always best to see a dentist as soon as possible.
By following preventive care practices, you can minimise the risk of future dental issues. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking professional help when necessary is key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy for years to come.
You can read more about toothache here:
- International Toothache Day: Let's Get to the Root of Oral Health!
- Top 10 Pros & Cons of Fluoridated Drinking Water
References
1. Fukuda KI. Diagnosis and treatment of abnormal dental pain. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5564113/
2. Erazo D, Brizuela M, Whetstone DR. Dental Infections. [Updated 2023 Nov 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542165/
3. Timmerman A, Parashos P. Management of dental pain in primary care. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7186276/
