What is the direct answer?
Toothache is relieved permanently only by treating its cause, such as decay, a crack, inflamed pulp, an abscess, gum disease, or an impacted tooth.
What does this question mean?
Pain can arise when inflammation activates nerves inside the pulp, pressure builds around the root, or exposed dentine responds to temperature.
What can you do next?
Rinse gently, keep food from the area, use a cold compress for facial swelling, and take only suitable pain medicine as directed.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek urgent care for facial swelling, fever, pus, uncontrolled pain, injury, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask what structure causes the pain and whether treatment needs a filling, root canal, extraction, drainage, or gum care.
Frequently asked questions
Can this have more than one cause?
Yes. Examination identifies the relevant tooth, gum, jaw tissue, appliance, or contributing factor.
What should I tell the dentist?
Describe when it began, what triggers it, how it has changed, and any recent treatment, injury, or medicines.

