How to stop a toothache headache

A toothache with a headache needs treatment of the dental cause, while short-term pain relief and a dental examination help control symptoms.

Pain from an inflamed pulp, infection around a root, a cracked tooth, gum disease, or a bite problem can radiate into the temple, ear, or jaw and feel like a headache. Pain medicine may reduce the signal but cannot remove decay, infected tissue, or a crack.

A dentist identifies the tooth with a history, visual inspection, percussion, cold or electrical pulp tests, bite testing, and radiographs when indicated.

Use an over-the-counter pain reliever only as directed on its label and only if it is suitable for your health conditions and medicines. Keep the area clean, avoid very hot or cold foods, and do not put heat or medication directly on the gum.

Seek urgent dental care for swelling, fever, pus, worsening pain, a broken tooth, or pain that interrupts sleep. Emergency help is needed if swelling affects the eye, neck, swallowing, or breathing.