Dental question about taxonomy:symptom:tooth-pain
Tooth pain can arise from decay, a cracked tooth, inflamed pulp, gum disease, or pressure around an erupting tooth.
The short answer
Tooth pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis, and the cause may be inside the tooth, around its root, or in nearby tissues.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
Cold or sweet sensitivity can occur when dentin is exposed; lingering pain, spontaneous pain, biting pain, swelling, or fever can indicate deeper inflammation or infection.
What can you do next?
Rinse gently, keep the area clean, avoid chewing on it, and use an over-the-counter pain medicine only if its label and your medical history allow it. Do not place aspirin on the gum.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange prompt care for persistent pain, and seek urgent help for facial swelling, fever, trouble swallowing, or trouble breathing.
Frequently asked questions
Can this be handled at home?
Home care can reduce irritation or symptoms, but it cannot replace diagnosis when a dental cause is present.