Overview
A toothache is a warning signal, not a diagnosis. Mild pain may come from trapped food or early decay, while throbbing pain, swelling, fever, or pain that wakes you at night can indicate infection. The safest path is to control pain temporarily and get the cause treated.
Key Takeaways
- ✓Pain that lingers, throbs, or wakes you from sleep needs prompt care.
- ✓Painkillers can reduce discomfort but do not treat decay or infection.
- ✓Do not place aspirin directly on gums or teeth because it can burn tissue.
- ✓Swelling, fever, or difficulty opening the mouth raises urgency.
What You Can Do At Home
- 1Rinse with warm salt water and gently clean around the painful tooth.
- 2Use a cold compress if there is swelling.
- 3Take over-the-counter pain medicine only as directed and if safe for you.
- 4Avoid chewing on the painful side until you are evaluated.
When To Book A Dentist
- !Pain lasts more than a few hours or keeps returning.
- !Cold or sweet sensitivity is limited to one tooth.
- !Pain occurs when biting or releasing a bite.
- !There is visible decay, a broken filling, or a cracked tooth.
Emergency Warning Signs
- !Facial swelling, fever, or pus near the tooth.
- !Difficulty swallowing, breathing, or opening the mouth.