Toothache
Introduction
Toothache refers to pain in and around the teeth and jaws that's usually caused by tooth decay.
You may feel toothache in many ways. It can come and go or be constant. Eating or drinking can make the pain worse, particularly if the food or drink is hot or cold.
The pain can also be mild or severe. It may feel "sharp" and start suddenly. It can be worse at night, particularly when you're lying down. A lost filling or broken tooth can sometimes start the pain.
It can also sometimes be difficult to decide whether the pain is in your upper or lower teeth. When a lower molar tooth is affected, the pain can often feel like it's coming from the ear.
Toothache in other upper teeth may feel like it's coming from the sinuses, the small, air-filled cavities behind your cheekbones and forehead.
The area of your jaw close to the infected tooth may also be sore and tender to touch.
It's also possible for periodontal disease to give rise to a "dull" pain. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects the soft and hard structures that support the teeth.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 5 Dec 2016
Introduction
Read about the causes of toothache, when to see your dentist, and how toothache can be relieved and prevented.
When to see your dentist
If you have toothache for more than one or two days, visit your dentist as soon as possible to have it treated. The longer you leave it, the worse it will get. If your toothache isn't treated, the pu
What causes toothache?
Toothache occurs when the innermost layer of the tooth (dental pulp) becomes inflamed. The pulp is made up ofsensitive nerves and blood vessels. Dental pulp can become inflamed as a result of: to
Treating toothache
The type of treatment you have for toothache will depend on the cause of the pain, so your dentist will examine your mouth and may carry out an X-ray to try to identify the problem. If your toothache
Preventing toothache
The best way toavoid getting toothache and other dental problems is to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. To do this, you should: limit your intake of sugary foods and drinksyou should
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