How to stop a decaying tooth from hurting
A decaying tooth hurts when decay irritates the dentin or inflames the pulp, and temporary measures cannot remove that cause.
The short answer
A decaying tooth hurts when decay irritates the dentin or inflames the pulp, and temporary measures cannot remove that cause. Gentle cleaning and suitable pain relief may help briefly while a dentist restores the tooth, treats the pulp, or removes it if it cannot be saved.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Rinse gently, floss around the tooth to remove trapped food, choose soft foods, and use an appropriate over-the-counter analgesic only as directed and only if suitable for your medical history. Do not put aspirin, alcohol, or caustic substances on the gum.
What can you do next?
Arrange prompt care for persistent, night-time, or worsening pain, swelling, fever, a bad taste, or pain on biting. Breathing or swallowing difficulty requires emergency medical help.
When should you seek dental care?
Ask whether the decay has reached the pulp, whether a filling or crown can restore the tooth, and when root canal treatment, drainage, or extraction is needed.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first?
Arrange an assessment if the problem persists or worsens.
When is it urgent?
Seek emergency help for difficulty breathing or swallowing.