Toothache Causes and What to Do Next

Common Causes of Tooth Pain

• Dental decay reaching sensitive parts of the tooth
• An inflamed or infected nerve inside the tooth
• A cracked or fractured tooth
• Gum inflammation or infection
• A recent dental procedure while healing
• Bite issues or grinding at night

Steps That May Help Before an Appointment

These are general comfort measures, not a substitute for professional evaluation.

• Rinse gently with warm water
• Use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling
• Follow the labeled directions on any over-the-counter medication you are permitted to take
• Avoid chewing on the affected side

What to Avoid

• Placing aspirin directly on the gums
• Applying strong heat to the outside of the face
• Attempting to remove a tooth or dig out food debris with sharp tools
• Ignoring worsening pain, swelling, or fever

When to Call the Dentist

Contact the office promptly if pain lasts more than a day or two, worsens, is accompanied by swelling or fever, or interferes with eating and sleep. Persistent pain suggests an underlying issue that benefits from professional evaluation.