Toothache

Toothache is pain that is present in or around your teeth. This pain may be a result of inflammation or irritation of the tooth itself or in surrounding parts. Toothache can cause significant discomfort and affect daily activities like sleep. Causes of toothache include tooth decay, infections, exposed nerves and damaged fillings.

Treatment focuses on relieving the pain and treating the underlying cause.

Many factors can cause toothache, including:

• Tooth decay, the destruction of the hard outer layer of your teeth (enamel), causing cavities. Bacteria in the sticky film (plaque) that forms on your teeth produce acid that attacks the enamel.
• A broken tooth or damaged filling.
• Excessive teeth grinding.
• Pus in the tooth cavity (abscess).
• Infected gums caused by the bacteria in plaque.
• Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold drinks due to exposed nerves.
• A third molar,  more commonly known as a “wisdom tooth" can also cause toothache.

• If your toothache lasts longer than 24 – 48 hours.
• If you have fever or pain in other parts of your head along with the toothache.
• If you experience a foul-tasting discharge from the affected tooth. This can indicate an infection.

You can prevent most toothaches by maintaining good oral hygiene (e.g. brushing and flossing daily) and preventing injury to your teeth. If you have a gum infection, make sure you follow your healthcare provider's recommended treatment.

Self-Care Tips

• Rinse your mouth often with water to remove any leftover food in your mouth. Bacteria that can cause toothache thrive on leftover food.
• Brush your teeth at least twice daily: in the morning when you wake up and at night, before bed.
• Mouthwashes may also help improve oral hygiene and can help remove leftover food, reduce sensitivity and act as antiseptics to reduce infection.
• Over-the-counter medications like paracetamol and ibuprofen can help to reduce your pain and discomfort.
• Oral solutions containing menthol (e.g., Touch and Go solution) may provide relief for sensitive teeth.
• Clove oil is a natural remedy that can help if you have a toothache. You can purchase clove oil at a local pharmacy. Ask the pharmacist about how to use it.

Medical Treatment

• The affected tooth may be removed by your healthcare provider (e.g. dentist).
• If the toothache is caused by a cavity, your healthcare provider can fill the cavity.
• If the toothache is because of an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.
• Pus drainage may be done if an abscess is the cause of your toothache.
• Pain relievers may be useful in reducing pain and discomfort.

Keeping good oral hygiene can prevent toothaches and other dental problems. Brush your teeth at least twice daily. Also, eat and drink less sugary foods and make a habit of rinsing your mouth or flossing your teeth after eating to remove leftover food.