Tooth pain, or a toothache, is sharp, throbbing, or aching pain felt in or around the tooth. Tooth pain can make it hard to eat, drink, or concentrate. The specific symptoms of tooth pain may vary depending on what is causing the pain.
Common sensations associated with tooth pain include:
Persistent aching or throbbing pain
Sharp pain when pressure is applied to the tooth (like when you bite down)
Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages
Gum sensitivity
Inflammation around the tooth
Bad breath
Foul tasting drainage from the tooth
Fever
Headaches
Tooth pain has several causes, including:
Tooth decay
A cracked or damaged tooth
Food buildup between the teeth
Infected gums
Worn-down teeth
An abscessed tooth (a bacterial infection in the center of the tooth)
Eruption (teeth erupting through the gums)
Loose or damaged fillings
Mild tooth pain may be managed at home, but if the aching doesn’t go away after a few days, schedule an appointment with your dentist. If the cause of the tooth pain goes untreated, it can lead to further damage and complications. Dentists can treat tooth pain by filling cavities, removing rotting teeth, performing root canals (if the pulp at the center of the tooth has become infected), and prescribing antibiotics for bacterial infections.
Treatment Options
Most cases of tooth pain will require a visit to the dentist. Before your visit, you can use the methods below to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Before starting treatment, talk to a provider or dental care provider about the treatment option that is best for you.
These steps can help reduce swelling or inflammation caused by a toothache while relieving pain:
- Rinse with warm saltwater. Saltwater can help disinfect your teeth and gums while knocking free food or debris from between your teeth.
- Cold compress. You can ease pain and reduce swelling caused by tooth pain by wrapping ice or frozen vegetables in a clean towel and holding it to the affected area. Repeat this several times throughout the day for 20 minutes at a time.
- Rinse with hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide will help sanitize any infection or inflammation causing your tooth pain.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. OTC pain medication like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can reduce swelling and relieve pain.