How long does a toothache last

A toothache can fade or persist, but pain that continues or returns needs an examination to find and treat its cause.

Tooth pain is a symptom from the pulp, periodontal ligament, gum, exposed dentine, or nearby tissues. Decay, a crack, a loose restoration, inflammation of the pulp, an abscess, or grinding can produce different pain patterns.

Rinse gently, keep the area clean, avoid chewing on the painful side, and follow the label of any pain medicine you can take. A dentist tests temperature response, biting, percussion, gum condition, and radiographic findings before treating the cause.

Arrange care promptly when pain lasts, returns, wakes you, or is associated with sensitivity or biting pain. Facial swelling, fever, difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing, or breathing requires urgent assessment.

Ask what tissue is causing the pain, whether the pulp is inflamed, whether an X-ray is needed, and which treatment will remove the cause rather than only dulling the symptom.