Toothache is pain in or around a tooth. Common causes include tooth decay, a cracked tooth, an inflamed or infected dental pulp, gum disease, a dental abscess, an impacted tooth or exposed tooth roots. Dental pain usually needs a dentist to identify and treat the underlying cause.
What toothache can feel like
Pain may be sharp, throbbing, constant or triggered by hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks. You may also have pain when biting, gum tenderness, a bad taste in the mouth or swelling around the tooth or face.
Temporary relief while waiting for dental care
- Rinse gently with warm salt water if you can do so safely. Do not let young children swallow the rinse.
- Keep the area clean with gentle brushing and flossing, unless an injury makes this unsafe.
- Use a cold pack on the outside of the cheek for swelling or pain.
- Choose soft foods and avoid chewing on the painful side.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help when appropriate. Follow the label and ask a pharmacist or healthcare professional if you are unsure.
Do not place aspirin or other pain medicine directly against the tooth or gum because it can damage tissue. Home remedies such as garlic, clove oil or other concentrated substances can irritate the mouth and do not treat the underlying dental problem.
When to see a dentist
Arrange dental care promptly for severe pain, pain lasting more than a day or two, pain when biting, a broken or loose tooth, persistent sensitivity, swelling, fever, pus or a bad taste that may indicate infection. Earlier assessment can prevent some dental problems from becoming more serious.
Dental abscess and spreading infection
An untreated dental infection can spread into surrounding tissues. Seek urgent dental or medical care for increasing facial or jaw swelling, fever with facial swelling, difficulty opening the mouth or rapidly worsening pain.
Contact local emergency services immediately for difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling involving the neck or area around the eye, severe weakness, confusion or another life-threatening symptom.
Prevention
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between the teeth regularly and limit frequent exposure to sugary foods and drinks. Dental checkup frequency should be based on individual oral health and a dentist’s recommendation rather than a fixed schedule for everyone.
This information is general and does not replace examination or treatment by a dental professional.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: 28 September 2026.