Smile Toothache: causes, home relief and when to see a dentist
Toothache is most often caused by tooth decay, a cracked tooth, an infection or gum disease. Pain relief at home is only temporary, so see a dentist if it lasts more than a day or two.
Common causes of toothache
- Tooth decay that has reached the inner part of the tooth.
- A cracked or broken tooth, or a loose filling.
- A dental abscess, which is an infection at the tooth root or in the gum.
- Gum disease or food trapped between teeth.
- A wisdom tooth that is coming through or is stuck.
- Teeth grinding or clenching, especially if pain is worse in the morning.
What can help at home for a short time
- Take over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, following the pack instructions. Do not give aspirin to children under 16.
- Rinse gently with warm water, and floss to remove trapped food.
- Avoid very hot, cold or sugary food and drinks.
- Try sleeping with your head raised, which can ease night-time throbbing.
- Do not put aspirin or any medicine directly on the gum or tooth.
These steps only ease symptoms. They do not treat the cause.
Get urgent help if
Contact a dentist or doctor the same day if you have facial or jaw swelling, fever, a bad taste or pus, or trouble swallowing or breathing. These can be signs of a spreading infection. Go to emergency care if swelling affects your breathing or swallowing.
Check your teeth early
Yuktii Smile Scan can look at your photos for visible signs such as holes, broken areas or swollen gums and give simple care advice. It cannot see pain inside the tooth or between teeth, so persistent toothache always needs a dentist.
Quick answers
How long can a toothache last before I see a dentist?
If the pain lasts more than a day or two, or comes with swelling or fever, book a dentist visit as soon as you can.
Why does toothache get worse at night?
Lying down can increase blood flow to the head, which can make throbbing pain feel stronger. The cause still needs treatment.
Take 5 guided photos with Yuktii Smile Scan, ask the AI teeth assistant, and find a dentist near you, worldwide.
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