Toothache: Toothache or tooth pain is caused when the nerve root of a tooth is irritated. Dental (tooth) infection, decay, injury, or loss of a tooth are the most common causes of toothache. One should call the doctor or dentist when experiencing toothache to receive appropriate treatment.

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Doctor's Notes on Toothache Symptoms

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Broken or Knocked-out Teeth

Broken teeth are caused by trauma to the face. Jaw pain, toothache, pain with chewing and temperature changes may indicate a broken or cracked tooth. Sometimes teeth may be reimplanted if they come out whole, but fractures may require crowns or removal of the tooth.
Dental Abscess

Bacteria from a tooth cavity can cause a dental abscess, or infection of the mouth, jaw, or face. Symptoms include pain, swelling, facial redness, gum inflammation, pus drainage, and occasional difficulty fully opening the mouth. Unless the abscess ruptures on its own, the abscess will need to be cut open and drained by a health-care professional. Dental abscesses can be deadly if left untreated.
Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums surrounding the teeth. Gingivitis is caused by a bacterial infection of the gums. Symptoms may include pain, redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. Treatment includes good dental hygiene and regular dental visits.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support the teeth. Teeth are supported by the gums, or gingiva. A tooth's root is anchored to its socket by fibers called periodontal ligaments.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Syndrome

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is pain in the jaw joint. Causes include disease, trauma, wear and tear, or habits. Symptoms and signs include swelling, ear pain, tinnitus, hearing loss, muscle spasms, trouble swallowing, headache, dizziness, and a locked jaw. Treatment incorporates ibuprofen, eating soft foods, applying warm compresses, getting fitted with a bite plate, cortisone injection, or surgery.
Wilderness: Tooth Squeeze

Tooth squeeze is a painful condition that occurs during the ascent while scuba diving. As the scuba diver ascends to the surface, air that has become trapped in a cavity or dental filling expands causing pain. Treatment for tooth squeeze include over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Medical care should be sought should the pain not resolve.
When to Visit the Dentist

Most symptoms and problems that occur with your mouth, teeth, and gums are not emergencies and usually can wait for an appointment with your dentist. Urgent dental problems include: traumatic injury that cracks or breaks teeth; cuts to the gums or mouth; tooth pain; gum swelling or redness; or jaw pain.

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Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease) Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support the teeth. Teeth are supported by the gums, or gingiva. A tooth's root is anchored to its socket by fibers called periodontal ligaments.

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Toothache Topic Guide - Visuals

Toothache Topic Guide - Medications and Vitamins

Medications:

Fluoride

Fluoride is a substance that strengthens tooth enamel, which helps prevent dental cavities...learn more »

Aspirin (oral)

Aspirin is a salicylate (sa-LIS-il-ate) that is used to treat pain, and reduce fever or inflammation.

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Acetaminophen (oral/rectal)

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and a fever reducer. There are many brands and forms of acetaminophen available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet...learn more »

Naproxen

Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)...learn more »

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)...learn more »