Causes
Decay, cracks, infection
Pain relief
Temporary help
See dentist
To find cause
Warning
Swelling or fever
Overview
Toothache can come from decay, a crack, gum problems or an infection. Pain that lingers, throbs or wakes you often points to the nerve being involved.
Pain relief can settle things for a while, but it does not fix the cause. Seeing your dentist lets the real problem be found and treated.
What to know
- Many causes, from decay to infection
- Lingering or throbbing pain needs checking
- Pain relief helps but does not fix the cause
- Swelling or fever means seek care sooner
Caring for it
- Rinse gently with warm, salty water.
- Clean carefully between the sore teeth to remove trapped food.
- Take simple pain relief as directed on the label.
- Hold a cold pack on the cheek if there is swelling.
- Avoid very hot, cold or sugary food and drink.
- Do not place aspirin directly on the gum, as it can burn.
- Book a dental visit to find and treat the cause.
Call your dentist if…
- Seek urgent care if you have facial swelling, fever, trouble swallowing or breathing, or severe pain that relief will not control.
Common questions
Will antibiotics fix my toothache?
Usually not alone. Most toothache needs the cause treated, such as a filling or root canal.
Why is my pain worse at night?
Lying down can increase pressure around the tooth, making throbbing feel worse.
Can I wait for it to settle?
Pain may ease, but the cause often remains. It is best to be checked.
What pain relief can I take?
Follow the label on standard pain relief, and ask your pharmacist if unsure.
Related topics
Dental abscess & facial swelling
A dental abscess is an infection that needs prompt treatment.
Tooth decay
Damage to the tooth caused by acid from plaque bacteria.
Root canal treatment
Treatment that saves a tooth by removing infected or damaged tissue inside it.
Cracked tooth
A crack in a tooth that can cause pain when biting or with hot and cold.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026