A toothache is when you feel pain in or around your tooth. It can be a little uncomfortable or very strong and painful. It can be constant or come and go, and it may worsen with certain triggers like eating, drinking, or brushing. Toothaches are often a sign that something is wrong, whether it’s in the tooth itself, the surrounding gums, or even the jaw.
Toothaches can happen to anyone—kids, adults, or even older people. Understanding the root cause is key to finding relief, which is why visiting a dentist as soon as possible is critical.
Toothaches can stem from a variety of issues, each requiring specific attention. Here are some of the most common culprits:
Cavities are the leading cause of toothaches. When germs in your mouth eat sugar, they make acid that slowly wears down your teeth and causes tiny holes. If not treated, these cavities can get worse and go deeper into the tooth, reaching the soft inside parts (like dentin or pulp), which can cause pain.
Gingivitis or periodontitis can cause gum inflammation, leading to discomfort that feels like a toothache. Receding gums may also expose tooth roots, making them sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
A cracked tooth, whether from trauma, biting down on something hard, or grinding your teeth, can cause sharp pain, especially when chewing. Even small cracks can expose nerves, leading to sensitivity.
An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums. This condition can cause intense, throbbing pain and may be accompanied by swelling, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth.
Worn enamel, exposed roots, or cavities can make teeth sensitive to temperature changes or certain foods. While sensitivity isn’t always a toothache, it can feel similar and may indicate an underlying problem.
If your wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to come through properly, they can get stuck, causing pain at the back of your mouth. This can also lead to swelling or an infection.
Chronic teeth grinding, often during sleep, can wear down enamel and strain the jaw, leading to tooth pain or sensitivity.
Surprisingly, sinus issues can mimic toothaches. The roots of your upper teeth are close to your sinuses, so inflammation or infection in this area can cause referred pain in the teeth.
Old fillings, crowns, or other restorations can crack, loosen, or decay over time, allowing bacteria to enter and cause discomfort.
Toothache symptoms can vary depending on the cause, but here are some signs that you should see a dentist:
If you experience severe pain, swelling, or fever, seek dental care immediately, as these could indicate a serious infection requiring urgent treatment.
While a dentist is the best person to diagnose and treat a toothache, there are some steps you can take at home to manage discomfort until your appointment:
Mix 1 teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. This helps clean and soothe the sore spot.
Alternative options. If the tooth cannot be saved, discuss bridges, implants, or partial dentures.
Put a cold pack or a bag of ice wrapped in a cloth against your cheek for 15–20 minutes. This helps bring down swelling.
Put a tiny drop of clove oil (mix it first with a little cooking oil) on a cotton ball. Gently press it on the sore spot—clove oil can help numb the pain.
Don’t eat or drink anything very hot, very cold, or too sweet, as these can make the pain worse.
Important: These remedies are temporary. A toothache won’t resolve on its own, and delaying professional care can lead to more serious complications.
The best way to deal with toothaches is to prevent them in the first place. Here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy:
