Toothache: What to Tell the Dentist and What Happens Next

A toothache can arise from decay, a crack, a damaged restoration, gum problems or inflammation inside a tooth. Pain location and intensity alone do not show which treatment is needed. An examination helps distinguish the causes.

Tell the team when pain started, whether it is spontaneous or triggered by cold or biting, how long it lasts, and whether there is swelling, fever or an injury. Mention recent treatment, medicines and allergies. Contact a dentist for persistent or worsening pain rather than waiting for a routine visit.

Avoid chewing on the painful area and keep the mouth gently clean. Ask a pharmacist or clinician about a pain medicine suitable for your age, medicines and health conditions; follow its label. Do not put aspirin on a tooth or gum, use household glue or take leftover antibiotics.

A filling or repair may suit a limited defect; pulp or root canal treatment may be considered when deeper tissues are affected. Extraction is considered when the tooth cannot be reasonably restored. Antibiotics are not a substitute for treating the dental cause.

Difficulty breathing or swallowing and rapidly spreading facial or neck swelling require emergency medical help. Fever with swelling needs urgent assessment. Call the selected office to check availability; a request form does not guarantee an immediate appointment.

Patient education, not an individual diagnosis or a claim of clinical review. Treatment and availability must be confirmed with your selected office.