Dental question about observed-topic:taxonomy-symptom-severe-toothache

Pain from inflamed pulp is often spontaneous or lingers after hot or cold; pain from an abscess may worsen when biting and may be accompanied by gum swelling. Use the label severe toothache for pain that is intense, persistent, interrupts sleep, or changes quickly, rather than trying to diagnose the cause from pain alone.

Rinse gently with warm water, brush softly, and remove trapped food with floss if it can be done without forcing it into the gum. Use only pain medicine that is suitable for you and follow its package directions. Do not place aspirin, alcohol, concentrated clove oil, or heat directly on the tooth or gum. A dentist can examine the tooth, test the pulp, take dental X-rays when indicated, and drain infection or restore or remove the tooth according to the cause.

Arrange urgent dental assessment for persistent or severe pain, facial or gum swelling, fever, a bad taste with drainage, a broken tooth, or pain that follows an injury. Go to emergency medical care for swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, or rapidly spreading facial swelling.

Ask whether the pulp is inflamed or infected, whether there is a crack or abscess, and what the examination and radiograph show. Ask which immediate treatment controls the cause and which pain medicines are appropriate with your medical history.