Toothache

Toothache occurs when the nerve in the root of a tooth or surrounding a tooth is irritated. The pain can vary from constant and mild to sharp and excruciating. Tooth pain is often a sign that something is wrong and requires attention from a dental professional.

The central portion of the tooth, called the pulp, contains nerve endings that are very sensitive to pain. Inflammation or infection of the pulp (pulpitis) is a common cause of toothache. However, pain can also originate from the gums, jaw, or even be referred from other areas.

While toothaches are rarely life-threatening, they can be signs of serious conditions that require immediate treatment. Untreated dental infections can spread to other parts of the body and, in rare cases, become life-threatening.

Sharp, Shooting Pain

• Often indicates cavity or crack
• Triggered by biting or chewing
• May come and go
• Can be localized to one tooth

Throbbing, Persistent Pain

• May indicate infection or abscess
• Often worsens at night
• Can be accompanied by swelling
• May radiate to jaw or ear

Sensitivity

• To hot/cold: May indicate cavity, worn enamel, or exposed roots
• To sweet: Often sign of cavity
• To pressure: Could indicate infection or crack
• Lingering: Pain lasting after stimulus removed suggests pulp damage

Dull, Constant Ache

• May indicate grinding or clenching
• Can be from sinus problems
• Sometimes from erupting wisdom teeth
• May involve multiple teeth

Dental Causes

Structural Problems

• Cracked tooth: Sharp pain when biting, sensitivity
• Broken filling: Exposed tooth structure
• Damaged crown: Pain around dental work
• Exposed roots: From gum recession
• Worn enamel: From grinding or acid erosion

Other Dental Issues

• Wisdom teeth: Eruption or impaction
• Bruxism: Teeth grinding or clenching
• TMJ disorders: Jaw joint problems
• Orthodontic adjustment: Braces tightening
• Recent dental work: Temporary sensitivity

Non-Dental Causes

• Sinus infection: Upper tooth pain
• Ear infection: Referred pain
• Heart problems: Jaw/tooth pain (rare)
• Trigeminal neuralgia: Nerve disorder
• Shingles: If affecting facial nerves
• Cluster headaches: Can cause tooth pain

Local Symptoms

• Pain characteristics: Sharp, dull, throbbing, or aching
• Swelling: Around tooth, gums, or face
• Sensitivity: To temperature, pressure, or sweet foods
• Bad taste: From infection or drainage
• Bleeding: From gums around affected tooth
• Discoloration: Darkening of affected tooth

Systemic Symptoms

• Fever: Indicates spreading infection
• Headache: From pain and tension
• Earache: Referred pain
• Swollen lymph nodes: In neck or jaw
• Difficulty swallowing: With severe infection
• General malaise: Feeling unwell

Warning Signs

Immediate Pain Relief

• Cold compress: Apply to outside of cheek for 15-20 minutes
• Salt water rinse: 1/2 teaspoon salt in warm water
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed
• Clove oil: Natural numbing agent, apply with cotton swab
• Elevation: Keep head elevated when lying down
• Avoid triggers: Hot, cold, or sweet foods

Natural Remedies

• Hydrogen peroxide rinse: 3% solution mixed with equal parts water
• Peppermint tea bags: Cool and apply to affected area
• Garlic: Natural antibiotic properties
• Vanilla extract: Contains alcohol for numbing
• Guava leaves: Anti-inflammatory when chewed
• Thyme: Antibacterial essential oil

What to Avoid

• Extremely hot or cold foods/drinks
• Sugary or acidic foods
• Chewing on affected side
• Tobacco products
• Aspirin directly on tooth (can burn gums)
• Ignoring the problem

Temporary Measures

• Dental wax: Cover sharp edges or lost fillings
• Temporary filling material: Available at pharmacies
• Soft foods: Reduce chewing pressure
• Room temperature liquids: Avoid temperature extremes
• Good oral hygiene: Gentle brushing and flossing

Daily Oral Hygiene

• Brush twice daily: With fluoride toothpaste for 2 minutes
• Floss daily: Remove plaque between teeth
• Use mouthwash: Antimicrobial rinse
• Clean tongue: Reduce bacteria
• Replace toothbrush: Every 3-4 months
• Proper technique: Gentle circular motions

Dietary Guidelines

• Limit sugary foods: Especially sticky candies
• Reduce acidic drinks: Soda, citrus juices
• Eat calcium-rich foods: Strengthen teeth
• Drink water: Rinse away food particles
• Chew sugar-free gum: Stimulate saliva
• Avoid constant snacking: Give teeth time to remineralize

Professional Care

• Regular check-ups: Every 6 months
• Professional cleanings: Remove tartar
• X-rays: Detect hidden problems
• Early intervention: Treat small problems
• Discuss concerns: Don't wait for pain

Lifestyle Factors

• Quit smoking: Reduces gum disease risk
• Manage stress: Prevent grinding
• Wear mouthguards: For sports
• Address grinding: Use night guard
• Stay hydrated: Maintain saliva production

Schedule an Appointment For:

• Sensitivity lasting more than a week
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Loose tooth in adults
• Lost filling or crown
• Persistent bad breath
• Any concerning changes

Local Complications

• Dental abscess: Pocket of pus from infection
• Tooth loss: From severe decay or infection
• Bone loss: In jaw from advanced gum disease
• Cyst formation: Around infected tooth root
• Damage to nearby teeth: Spreading decay

Systemic Complications

• Ludwig's angina: Serious mouth floor infection
• Cavernous sinus thrombosis: Blood clot in brain
• Endocarditis: Heart valve infection
• Brain abscess: Rare but serious
• Sepsis: Blood infection

Quality of Life Impact

• Difficulty eating and nutrition issues
• Sleep disruption from pain
• Work or school absence
• Social embarrassment
• Chronic pain development
• Anxiety about dental visits