Common causes of toothache
Toothache can be caused by food caught between teeth, decay, a cracked tooth or filling, an exposed root, gum infection or an infection inside the tooth. Toothache is often a sign of a problem that needs treatment, so book to see your dentist soon.
Temporary relief
- Rinse with warm, mildly salty water.
- Gently floss to remove any food caught between the teeth.
- Use a cold compress on the outside of your face for swelling.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief as directed on the packet. Do not place tablets directly on the gum.
When to seek urgent care
- Swelling of the face or gums
- Fever or feeling unwell
- Pain that pain relief does not control
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing: go to a hospital emergency department or call 000
Pain relief is short term
Medication may ease symptoms but does not treat the cause. Your dentist will find and treat the source of the pain.
Book an emergency appointment at North Ryde Dentistry in Macquarie Park.
Related articles
- What to Do in a Dental Emergency
- Emergency Dental Services: Why It Helps to Plan Ahead
- Emergency Dental Care: Do’s and Don’ts
This article is general information only and does not replace advice from your own dentist. Whether a treatment is suitable for you can only be decided after an examination. All dental treatment carries risks, and results vary from person to person.