Toothache

Symptoms of toothache 

Toothache often starts suddenly and the pain can vary from mild discomfort to being very severe. You may have a throbbing pain in your head, jaw, and ear that is constant, or that comes and goes.

The pain can be worse when you are eating or drinking, particularly if the food or drink is hot or cold.

The jaw in the area of the tooth may be sore and tender to the touch. The pain can also get worse when you lie down, because more pressure is put on the tooth.

Typical symptoms of toothache include:

  • increased pain when chewing,
  • sensitivity to hot or cold food,
  • bleeding around the tooth or gums,
  • swelling around the tooth, and
  • swelling of the jaw.
  • show glossary terms

Glossary

Pain
Pain is an unpleasant physical or emotional feeling that your body produces as a warning sign that it has been damaged.
Swelling
Inflammation is the body's response to infection, irritation or injury, which causes redness, swelling, pain and sometimes a feeling of heat in the affected area.

Last reviewed: 07/09/2009

Next review due: 07/09/2011

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