When to seek help for tooth pain

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Tooth pain is one of the most common reasons people contact a dentist. Sometimes it is a short, sharp twinge when you drink something cold. Other times it is a deep, throbbing ache that keeps you awake. The type of pain, how long it lasts and what comes with it can all help your dentist work out what may be going on.

This guide explains some common causes of tooth pain, the signs that mean you should book a dental appointment soon, and the warning signs that need urgent medical attention.

Seek urgent medical care straight away if you have

• Facial or neck swelling that is spreading, or swelling around the eye
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• A fever, or feeling generally very unwell, along with tooth pain or swelling
• A dental or facial injury (trauma), such as a blow to the face, a knocked-out tooth, or bleeding that will not stop

These signs can point to a serious infection or injury. Go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call emergency services. Do not wait for a routine dental appointment. Once you have been seen, contact your dentist so that the cause can be followed up.

Common causes of tooth pain

• Tooth decay (cavities) that has reached the inner layers of the tooth
• A cracked or broken tooth, or a lost filling
• Inflamed or infected pulp, the soft tissue inside the tooth
• Gum problems, including infection around a partly erupted wisdom tooth
• Exposed root surfaces, which can cause sensitivity
• Grinding or clenching, which can make teeth and jaw muscles ache

Pain is not always felt in the tooth that is causing it. Problems in an upper back tooth can sometimes be felt in the sinus area, and sinus congestion can make upper teeth feel sore. This is one reason a proper examination is helpful.

Book a dental appointment soon if

• Pain lasts more than a day or two, or keeps coming back
• Sensitivity to hot or cold lingers after the drink or food is gone
• It hurts to bite or chew on a tooth
• You notice a small bump, pimple or bad taste near a tooth
• A tooth has chipped, cracked or a filling has fallen out
• Your gums are swollen or bleed around one tooth

Even if the pain eases, it is worth having the tooth checked. Pain from an inflamed nerve can sometimes fade as the nerve is damaged, while the underlying problem continues. Your dentist will assess the tooth and explain the options, which may include a filling, root canal treatment, gum care or, in some cases, extraction.

What you can do in the meantime

• Rinse gently with warm salt water to keep the area clean
• Clean carefully around the tooth with a soft brush and floss to remove trapped food
• Use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek for short periods if there is swelling
• Avoid very hot, cold or sugary foods and chewing on the painful side
• If you take pain relief, use it only as directed on the pack or by a pharmacist or doctor, and check it is suitable for you

Avoid placing aspirin or other tablets directly on the gum, as this can burn the soft tissue. Home remedies may ease discomfort for a short time, but they do not treat the cause.

If a tooth is knocked out

For an adult tooth that has been knocked out, hold it by the crown (the white part), not the root. If it is dirty, rinse it briefly with milk or clean water without scrubbing. Keep it moist, ideally in milk, and seek dental or emergency care as quickly as possible, as time matters. Do not try to put a baby tooth back in. If there has been a blow to the head or face, seek medical care first.

Contacting the clinic

If you have tooth pain without the urgent warning signs above, call Dr. Renuka's Dental Care on +91 98881 24232 to ask about an appointment. Please call to confirm availability, as the clinic's emergency arrangements and hours may vary.