Toothaches

Alternative Names

Home Care

Over-the-counter pain medications may be used while waiting to see the dentist or primary health care provider.

For toothaches caused by a tooth abscess, the dentist may recommend antibiotic therapy and other treatments, like root canal.

To prevent tooth decay, use good oral hygiene. A low sugar diet is recommended along with regular flossing, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, and regular professional cleaning. Sealants and fluoride applications by the dentist are important for preventing tooth decay.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Seek medical care if:

• You have a toothache that lasts longer than a day or 2, or if it's severe
• You have fever, earache, or pain upon opening the mouth wide

Note: The dentist is an appropriate person to see for most causes of toothaches. However, if the problem is referred pain from another location, you may need to see your primary health care provider.

The dentist will examine you. The physical examination may include an examination of the mouth, teeth, gums, tongue throat, ears, nose, and neck. You may need dental x-rays. The dentist may recommend other tests, depending on the suspected cause.

The dentist will ask questions about your medical history and symptoms, including:

• When did the pain start?
• How severe is the pain?
• Where is the pain located?
  • Does it involve the jaw or ears?
  • Does it radiate to other parts of the body, such as the neck, shoulder, or arm?
• What makes it worse?
  • Is it worse after cold foods or liquids?
  • Is it worse after sweet foods or liquids?
  • Is it worse after chewing?
  • Is it worse after drinking?
  • Is it worse when you touch the area?
  • Is it worse after physical exertion?
• Does the pain wake you up at night?
• What makes it better?
  • Is it better after you use medications? (Which ones?)
  • Is it better after you use a heating pad?
  • Is it better after you rest?
• What other symptoms do you have?
  • Fever ?
  • Nausea?
  • Sweating?
  • Indigestion?
  • Chest pain?
  • Bleeding?
• What medications do you take?
• Have you been injured?
• When was the last dental checkup?
• Have you had previous dental problems?

The dentist will fill cavities or extract the tooth if necessary. Root canals might be performed if the problem is severe in both the primary and permanent teeth. If there is a fever or swelling of the jaw, an antibiotic will usually be prescribed.