Toothache
Toothache is pain in and around the teeth and jaws. It’s usually caused by tooth decay.
You can feel toothache in many ways. It can come and go or be constant. Eating or drinking can make the pain worse, particularly if the food or drink is hot or cold.
The pain can also be mild or severe. It might feel sharp and start suddenly. It can be worse at night, particularly when you’re lying down. A lost filling or broken tooth can sometimes start the pain.
It can also sometimes be difficult to decide whether the pain is in your upper or lower teeth. When a lower molar tooth is affected, the pain can often feel like it’s coming from the ear.
Toothache in other upper teeth may feel like it’s coming from the sinuses, the small, air-filled cavities behind your cheekbones and forehead.
The area of your jaw close to the infected tooth may also be sore and tender to touch.
It’s also possible for periodontal disease to give rise to a dull pain. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects the soft and hard structures that support the teeth.
If your toothache isn’t treated, the pulp inside your tooth can become infected. This may lead to a dental abscess, with severe and continuous throbbing pain.
Painkillers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, may reduce the pain and discomfort while you’re waiting for an appointment. Children under 16 years of age shouldn’t be given aspirin.
If your toothache isn’t treated, the pulp inside your tooth can become infected. This may lead to a dental abscess, with severe and continuous throbbing pain.
Painkillers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, may reduce the pain and discomfort while you’re waiting for an appointment. Children under 16 years of age shouldn’t be given aspirin.
- limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks – you should have these as an occasional treat and only at meal times
- brush your teeth twice a day using a toothpaste that contains fluoride – gently brush your gums and tongue as well
- clean between your teeth using interdental brushes or dental floss
- stop smoking – it can make some dental problems worse
Make sure you have regular dental check-ups , ideally with the same dentist. The time between check-ups can vary, depending on how healthy your teeth and gums are and your risk of developing future problems.