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Toothache
Toothache is pain in or around a tooth, often a sign of decay, infection or a gum problem. It ranges from mild sensitivity to severe throbbing pain.
Causes & risk factors
- Tooth decay or a cavity
- A tooth abscess or infection
- Gum disease
- A cracked or broken tooth
- A worn or lost filling
- Teeth grinding or an impacted wisdom tooth
Common symptoms
- Throbbing or sharp tooth pain
- Pain on biting or chewing
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling around the tooth or gum
- Fever with severe infection
- Bad taste or bad breath
Tests & diagnosis
- Dental examination
- Dental X-ray
- Tooth vitality (pulp) test
- Bite assessment
Treatment & management
- Finding and treating the cause (decay, infection or gum problem)
- Fillings, crowns or root canal as needed
- Pain relief for short-term comfort
- Salt-water rinses for gum irritation
- Good oral hygiene to prevent recurrence
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe pain lasting more than 1–2 days
- Facial or gum swelling
- Fever or a bad taste from the tooth
- Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about toothache. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my toothache come and go?
Intermittent pain can come from early decay or sensitivity, but pain that keeps returning usually means a problem that needs a dentist to treat the cause.
Can a toothache be an emergency?
Severe pain with facial swelling, fever or trouble swallowing needs urgent dental or medical care, as it can signal a spreading infection.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.