A warm welcome to anyone reading this while holding their cheek in pain. If you’re wondering what to do when you have a toothache, you’re not alone. Tooth pain can strike suddenly — during dinner, at work, or even worse, in the middle of the night. That sharp, throbbing feeling can make it hard to eat, sleep, or focus on anything else.
According to the FDI World Dental Federation, oral diseases affect more than 3.5 billion people worldwide. Toothaches are one of the top reasons people visit a dentist urgently.
The good news? There are steps you can take right away. In this guide, you’ll learn the symptoms to watch for, quick relief tips, and when it’s time to see a dentist.
7 Common Toothache Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
Understanding your symptoms helps you decide what to do when you have a toothache and how serious it may be.
1. Sharp or Throbbing Pain
This is the most common sign. It may come and go or stay constant. Often caused by cavities or infection.
2. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
If sipping tea or drinking cold water causes pain, your enamel may be worn down or you may have tooth decay.
3. Pain While Chewing
Pain when biting down could mean a cracked tooth or deep cavity.
4. Swelling Around the Tooth or Jaw
Swelling is a warning sign of infection. Do not ignore it.
5. Bleeding or Red Gums
This may point to gum disease, especially if brushing causes discomfort.
6. Headache or Ear Pain
Tooth nerves connect to other areas of the head. Pain can spread.
7. Fever with Tooth Pain
If you have fever and swelling, seek dental help immediately. This could mean a serious infection.
What Causes a Toothache?
To know what to do when you have a toothache, you must understand the cause.
Tooth Decay (Cavities)
The most common reason. Bacteria break down enamel and create holes in the tooth.
Dental Abscess
A pocket of pus caused by infection. This condition can be dangerous if untreated.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
Even a small crack can expose the nerve and cause severe pain.
Gum Disease
Inflamed or infected gums may cause dull, deep pain.
Impacted Wisdom Tooth
When wisdom teeth don’t grow properly, they can press against other teeth and cause pain.
How to Relieve Tooth Pain Fast at Home
If you’re searching late at night for what to do when you have a toothache, try these temporary relief tips. Remember, these do not replace dental treatment.
1. Rinse with Warm Salt Water
Mix half a teaspoon of salt in warm water. This helps clean the area and reduce swelling.
2. Apply a Cold Compress
Place a cold pack on your cheek for 15–20 minutes. This helps numb pain and reduce swelling.
3. Use Clove Oil
Clove oil has natural numbing effects. Apply a small amount with a cotton swab.
4. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Ibuprofen may reduce pain and swelling. Do not place aspirin directly on the tooth.
5. Keep Your Head Elevated
When lying down, use extra pillows. This reduces blood flow to the painful area and eases throbbing.
These methods can help temporarily, but they won’t fix the root problem.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Sometimes people delay treatment, hoping the pain will disappear. But knowing what to do when you have a toothache includes knowing when to seek help.
See a dentist if:
Pain lasts more than 1–2 days
You have swelling in your face or jaw
You notice pus or bad taste in your mouth
You have fever
The pain is severe and keeps you awake
Dental infections can spread if ignored. Acting early can prevent bigger problems.
Possible Dental Treatments for Toothache
Treatment depends on the cause of your pain.
Dental Filling
If decay is caught early, a filling can repair the damaged area.
Root Canal Treatment
If infection reaches the pulp (inner part of the tooth), this procedure removes infected tissue and saves the tooth.
Tooth Extraction
If the tooth cannot be saved, removal may be necessary.
Antibiotics
Used if there is bacterial infection or swelling.
A proper dental check-up helps determine the right solution.
5 Simple Ways to Prevent Future Toothaches
Prevention saves time, money, and pain.
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss every day to remove trapped food.
Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
Visit your dentist every 6 months.
Treat small dental issues early before they become painful.
Healthy habits reduce your chances of searching again for what to do when you have a toothache.
Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain
Tooth pain is your body’s way of warning you that something is wrong. Acting quickly can prevent serious complications. Now you know what to do when you have a toothache — manage the pain temporarily, identify warning signs, and seek dental help when needed.
If you are looking for Toothache Treatment in Kharadi, visit Teeth Empire Dental Clinic. Dr. Prithvi Bonde provides careful diagnosis and effective solutions to help relieve your tooth pain.
Don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a healthy, pain-free smile.