A toothache can be among some of the most unbearable pain that one endures, the type of pain that seems to get worse at night or on a weekend when you can’t get to the dentist. In case you have severe toothache and cannot rush to a dental clinic, you need to know how to provide temporary relief for the pain at home and when you need to make an emergency call for help.
This article will discuss some common reasons for extreme tooth pain, symptoms that indicate an urgent problem and the proper, safe temporary fixes to get you by until you can make it to a professional.
What Are the Common Causes of Severe Toothache?
Well, nothing beats a sharp pain in your tooth, to serve a reminder that all is not well inside your mouth; most of the time. Top possible causes include:
Tooth decay or cavities: Bacteria that chip away at tooth enamel, opening up the “dentin,” layers of sensitive inner tissue.
Dental abscesses: Infections that create pockets of pus around the root of a tooth or in the gum.
Gum disease (periodontal disease): Swollen and painful gums can lead to severe pain and tooth sensitivity.
Cracked or chipped teeth: Small cracks in teeth can irritate the nerve inside of them, leading to aching pain.
Impacted wisdom teeth: These can push on nearby teeth and cause pain.
Food trapped under or between teeth or in the gum area: This can irritate gums and result in sharp pain.
Sinus infections: Pain in the upper teeth may be from inflamed sinus cavities that can refer pain to the upper teeth.
What Are The Symptoms of a Dental Emergency?
It is important to know the difference between something that can wait and a true emergency. Get medical help immediately if you have:
- Swelling of the face or jaw
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Fever or chills
- Persistent bleeding
- Savage pain not alleviated by attempts at palliation
- Drainage from gums or tooth area
When a spreading infection is manifested as the previous signs and symptoms, is unmediated treatment to save life.
What are the Temporary Remedies to Try for Tooth Pain?
Only a dentist can solve the underlying problem causing your discomfort, but there are some safe things you can do to relieve the pain until you can seek help from a professional.
Temporary Pain Relief Methods and Their Effectiveness
| Method | Description | How Effective? | Notes |
| Saltwater rinse | Warm saltwater gargle to cleanse and reduce bacteria | Moderate | Repeat 2–3 times a day |
| Cold compress | Apply ice pack to outside of cheek | High (for swelling) | 15–20 minutes at a time, repeat as needed |
| Pain relief medication | Ibuprofen or paracetamol (follow instructions) | High (temporary) | Do not exceed recommended dosage |
| Topical numbing gels | Benzocaine-based gels applied directly on gum | Moderate | Avoid in children under 2 years |
As an alternative to the above techniques:
- Do not chew on the side were you have the problem.
- Lift your head when lying to minimize pressure on the blood vessels.
- Keep good oral hygiene without irritating the aching tooth.
What Should You NOT Do to Handle a Toothache?
What not to do is just as crucial:
- Don’t attempt to extract the tooth or drill into it yourself.
- Don’t apply the aspirin directly to the tooth or gums (to prevent burns).
- Do not discount swelling or increased pain, as infections can become systemic quickly.
- Stay away from hard, sugary, acidic, and hot/cold foods that can increase pain.
When to see a doctor?
Although those symptoms are often manageable for a short time, others indicate that you must act, and quickly.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
| Symptom | Why It’s an Emergency |
| Facial swelling | May indicate spreading infection |
| Difficulty breathing | Infection could be obstructing airway |
| High fever and chills | Sign of systemic infection |
| Pus discharge | Indicates abscess that requires drainage |
| Severe unrelenting pain | May require prescription pain relief or extraction |
If the following symptoms develop, attend the nearest hospital emergency department or after-hours dental service as soon as possible.
How to Search for an Emergency Dentist?
You cannot reach your own dentist: What to do Here are some options if you are unable to contact your own dentist:
- Look online for “emergency dentist” for after-hours clinics.
- Reach out to the dental departments at local hospitals.
- Look to dental hotlines for guidance on urgent care.
- First, call the voicemail for your regular clinic, where many clinics leave guidance for emergencies.
Which Over-the-Counter Medications Will Help?
Good short-term relief can also be achieved with pain-relieving medication – provided it is always used as instructed.
OTC Medications for Toothache Relief
| Medication | Dosage (Adults) | Notes |
| Ibuprofen | 200–400mg every 4–6 hours | Anti-inflammatory; avoid if you have stomach ulcers or asthma |
| Paracetamol | 500–1000mg every 4–6 hours | Pain reliever; do not exceed 4g in 24 hours |
| Combination (if safe) | Alternate ibuprofen and paracetamol | Consult a pharmacist or doctor before combining |
As always please consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist if you are unsure if a medication is right for you.
Why Fletcher Dental Care for Emergency Dentistry and Prevention?
If you are experiencing chronic tooth pain or are in need of emergency dental services, we are here for you at Fletcher Dental Care. Our highly experienced and caring team is committed to your personal comfort and safety during treatment. We have state-of-the-art technology and we offer all the latest services to ensure that you get the most complete care to meet your needs.
We know all too well how bad toothache can be – especially when it happens at night, at the weekend or on a public holiday. We have a reputation for quickly getting back to you and comprehensive evaluations along with gentle manners and techniques help you feel at ease. All of us at Fletcher Dental Care have a high focus on prevention and can help you stay away from emergencies down the track with regular visits and individual oral hygiene programs.
Don’t let a serious toothache change your daily routine. Call Fletcher Dental Care today to schedule a visit, and receive the professional care that will make you feel comfortable and confident.
Important FAQs
What is the most common cause of extreme tooth pain?
The most common is when dental decay develops into a cavity that reaches the pulp. Other culprits are infections, broken teeth and gum disease.
Should I take ibuprofen and paracetamol together for toothache?
Yes, it’s true that taking ibuprofen and paracetamol together can make for more powerful pain relief, but only do so if you know you’re safe to take them and you stick within the correct dose limits.Got a question?Ask away!
At what point is a toothache considered a dental emergency?
If you have swelling, fever, difficulty breathing or swallowing, pus, or unmanageable pain, you have a dental emergency.
How can I avoid strong toothaches in the future?
The best way to avoid excruciating pain is to have regular check-ups with your dentist and practice good oral hygiene.
What should I do if my face swells up from tooth pain?
Facial swelling may indicate a spreading infection. Seek urgent dental or hospital care immediately, as this can become life-threatening if untreated.
Can I wait a few days before seeing a dentist for a toothache?
If the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, swelling, or pus, do not delay. Contact a dentist or emergency dental service as soon as possible.