I Have a Severe Toothache: What Can I Do?
If you’re here because your tooth is hurting badly, we’re so sorry you’re going through this. Toothache is a common, but definitely nerve-wracking experience, and you have every right to be looking for effective relief. In this blog post, we address the possible causes of a severe toothache along with easy steps you can take to provide you with temporary relief until you can visit your South Perth Dentist.
Severe Toothache: What It Feels Like
Let’s see how different people might describe what they’re feeling when they have a severe toothache. People often describe dental pain in different ways when they come to see our Emergency Dentist Perth, and that’s because the underlying cause isn’t always the same. Whatever you’re feeling, these common signs help us understand what’s probably causing the severe pain.
A Constant, Throbbing Pain
This type of pain is always there and doesn’t just come and go. It also feels like it is pulsing or beating with the heartbeat.
Sharp Pain When Biting or Chewing
This kind of pain may come to you suddenly and actually catch you off guard. It is a sharp and stabbing pain that you usually feel when you apply pressure to it, for example, when biting or chewing something. The source of the pain could be a cracked tooth, a loose filling, or even decay that’s reached a sensitive area.
Swelling Around the Tooth or Jaw
You may feel sensations of puffiness and tenderness around the tooth or even see that the area around the painful tooth has become swollen. This swelling may be a sign of infection, such as an abscess and needs attention from your dentist; otherwise, it may spread or worsen gradually.
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold Foods and Drinks
If you feel like your teeth start to ache every time you drink something cold, hot, or something sweet, like chocolate or ice cream, don’t ignore it. This type of tooth sensitivity may start mild but can get worse over time, especially if your enamel is worn down or there is nerve exposure.
Common Causes of Severe Toothache
Most people tend to associate toothaches with cavities or decay; while dental cavities are among the most common culprits of most severe toothaches, they’re not behind all dental pains. There are several possible reasons why a person may be going through a severe toothache. For us dentists, finding the underlying cause is the first crucial step because it leads us towards choosing the right treatment option and easing your pain. Let’s see what the most common causes of toothaches are:
Tooth Decay (Dental Caries)
Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of toothache. Tooth decay happens when dental plaque and bacteria have broken down your tooth enamel and/or create holes in your tooth. If the cavity gets so deep, it can irritate the nerve inside your tooth and cause severe pain.
Pulpitis (Reversible or Irreversible)
Pulpitis occurs when the inner part of your tooth (the pulp) becomes inflamed. Reversible pulpitis means that when the dentist treats the underlying cause, your pain will go away, but irreversible pulpitis usually means the nerve inside your tooth is damaged, and you need root canal treatment. Pain that is caused by pulpitis can range from sensitive to severe, depending on the stage.
Dental Abscess (Periapical or Periodontal)
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that is caused by infection, which can be either at the tip of your tooth roots or in the gums. Dental abscesses can cause intense, throbbing pain, swelling, and even fever. If you have these symptoms, make sure you visit your dentist for urgent care.
Cracked or Fractured Tooth
Cracked or fractured teeth can also lead to sharp pain because sometimes, even a small crack can expose the inner parts of your tooth. If your tooth is fractured or cracked, you may feel sharp pain when you chew, bite down on something or in cases of temperature changes.
Loose or Broken Fillings
In some cases, if your fillings are old or damaged, they can leave parts of your tooth exposed. When parts of your tooth are exposed, you may experience tooth sensitivity, discomfort, or even decay underneath the tooth.
Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)
Infections that have affected your gums can cause soreness and tenderness around the tooth, especially if the infections have spread deep into the tissues. Visit your dentist if you notice your teeth seem to be a little loose, or your gums have become red, swollen, tender, or if they bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. These signs are common symptoms of gum disease.
Wisdom Teeth Problems
Sometimes, the severe toothache you are going through may be due to impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth. Problematic wisdom teeth can press on the nearby teeth or even become infected and cause intense pain. In some cases, you may need wisdom teeth extraction in Perth to get rid of pain.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching)
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a habit that many may do unconsciously but can cause dental and jaw pain. Teeth grinding can also wear down your enamel and put pressure on the roots.
Dental Trauma or Injury
If you have recently had a knock to your mouth, it may have damaged your tooth’s nerve or structure, even if there’s no visible crack. You may experience tooth pain right after the injury or even days after it. Make sure you visit your dentist even for minor injuries.
Dentin Hypersensitivity
Dentin hypersensitivity occurs if your dentin, which is one of the layers of your tooth under the enamel, becomes exposed. In this case, you will experience sharp and sudden dental pain, especially with hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods.
Immediate Steps to Relieve Severe Toothache at Home
While the following steps we are suggesting can provide only temporary relief and won’t address the underlying issue, they can help you manage pain and discomfort until you can arrange your dental visit soon.
Rinse with Warm Salt Water
Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water. It can act as a natural disinfectant and help soothe inflamed tissues. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can clean the area and reduce swelling. Do this a few times a day until you can see your dentist.
Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
You can try some over-the-counter pain relievers. Medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help ease your pain and inflammation temporarily. Just remember to follow the dosage written on the pack carefully. Plus, avoid placing pills directly on the tooth — that’s a common myth.
Apply a Cold Compress to the Affected Area
Try placing a cold pack on the outside of your cheek; it can help numb the pain and reduce swelling a little. Keep the ice pack on the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes, and then remove it for 15 minutes. Cold compresses can be especially helpful if there has been trauma or swelling.
Use Topical Anaesthetics
There are some topical anaesthetics you can try, for example, gels or creams with benzocaine can temporarily numb the area and save you from a severe toothache. You can find them at some pharmacies. Please remember that they are not suitable for children under 2 years old and should not be used long‑term—always follow the label instructions.
Apply Clove Oil to the Painful Area
You can ease a toothache by using clove oil because it has mild numbing and antibacterial properties, though relief is only temporary. Use a small amount on a cotton ball—diluted in a teaspoon of carrier oil—and place it near the painful area, but do not use too much because it may irritate tissues.
Rinse with Hydrogen Peroxide Solution (Diluted)
If you have swelling or infection in your tooth, you can rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide solution; it can help kill bacteria and ease discomfort. Make sure the solution is diluted (equal parts water and 3% hydrogen peroxide), be careful not to swallow it, and only use it occasionally.
Elevate Your Head, Especially When Lying Down
If you’re in pain, keeping your head elevated with the help of a few pillows can make things better by reducing blood flow to the affected area. In these cases, lying flat can increase pressure and worsen throbbing pain.
Avoid Extremely Hot, Cold, or Sugary Foods and Drinks
Make sure you stay away from anything too hot, too cold, or sweet because these can trigger or worsen sensitivity. It’s best to stick to lukewarm, bland foods for now until you visit your dentist and see what’s going on with your tooth. Plus, try to avoid chewing on the sore side if it’s possible.
Use Natural Remedies (e.g., Garlic, Peppermint, Vanilla Extract)
Some people have reported that using some natural remedies like garlic paste (antibacterial), peppermint tea bags (cooling), or vanilla extract (mild numbing) could provide them with temporary relief. However, these may only provide short‑term comfort, do not cure, and lack strong clinical support—remember to avoid using them if they cause irritation.
When to Contact an Emergency Dentist
While some toothaches can wait a day or two, there are certain signs that mean you should get help as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent small dental issues from turning into more significant problems in the future.
The following symptoms can be considered red flags that you should take seriously and seek urgent care for.
Pain Lasting More Than Two Days
If your severe toothache doesn’t improve after a couple of days, there may be a more serious issue going on, and you shouldn’t ignore it. In this case, the longer you wait, the more complicated treatment you may need and the more pain you will go through. So, if your intense tooth pain lasts more than two days, contact your dentist as soon as possible rather than trying to tough it out.
Swelling in Your Face or Jaw
If there is visible swelling, especially near the cheek or jaw, it could mean that there is an infection and that the infection is spreading. Since swelling can become serious quickly and may affect nearby areas like the throat or eyes, it’s best to have this looked at without delay.
Fever or Chills
Tooth pain that is accompanied by a fever could indicate that your body is fighting an infection. If you have chills and/or are feeling unwell, it could mean that the infection is spreading beyond the tooth. This is a medical concern, not just a dental one, and you shouldn’t neglect it.
Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing
In case swelling spreads to your throat or under your tongue, you may face difficulty breathing or swallowing, which is a definite emergency. Seek immediate care and do not wait for it.
A Broken or Knocked-Out Tooth
When dental injuries occur, especially a knocked-out tooth, time is so critical. The sooner you go to your dentist for help, the greater your chance of saving the tooth. In such instances, quick action will give you the best chance of repair.
Bleeding That Doesn’t Stop
If bleeding in your mouth is non-stop and continues for more than a few minutes, especially after trauma or dental work, you need to see a dentist promptly. Prolonged bleeding could be a sign of injury, gum disease, or other underlying issues.
Preventing Future Severe Toothaches
Brush Your Teeth Regularly
Brushing your teeth twice a day is the simplest way to prevent decay and other dental problems. Be careful about using the correct technique, and make sure you reach all the surfaces.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Make sure you use fluoride toothpaste as it helps strengthen your teeth enamel and makes your teeth more resistant to acid attacks. Using fluoride toothpaste is an easy way to protect your teeth against cavities.
Floss Every Day
Remember, brushing alone is not enough, and you should floss between your teeth as well to ensure proper dental health and prevent dental issues. Flossing daily removes food particles and plaque from these tight spaces.
Cut Down on Sugar
As you already know, consuming too many sugary foods and drinks can put your oral health in danger because sugary foods and drinks feed the bacteria that cause cavities. Cut back on sugar and lower your risk of decay. Try to limit snacking and opt for water between meals.
See Your Dentist Often
Visit your dentist regularly for dental check-ups and clean sessions. Arranging regular dental visits, even if nothing feels wrong, helps catch possible problems early, before they turn painful.
Protect Your Teeth at Night
If you grind your teeth at night, you will probably need a night guard to prevent your teeth enamel from wearing down and causing you pain. Your dentist will craft a custom-made night guard for you to help protect your teeth while you are sleeping.
How Acts Dental Can Help
We know how overwhelming tooth pain can be — and we’re here to help you feel better, fast. Whether it’s a sudden emergency or pain that’s been building up, our caring team at Acts Dental will listen, take a close look, and find the right solution to get you out of pain and back to feeling like yourself. If you’re in need of urgent care or just not sure what to do next, give us a call (08) 9474 5083 we’re here for you.