If you have toothache, it is important you see your dentist as soon as possible.
Treatment for toothache depends on what is causing the problem. Some of the possible treatment options are outlined below.
- if your toothache is caused by tooth decay, the dentist will take out the decayed area and replace it with a filling
- if your toothache is caused by a loose or broken filling, the filling is taken out, any decay is cleaned out and a new filling is put in
- if the pulp of your tooth is infected, you may need to have root canal treatment, where your dentist (or a specialist called an endodontist) takes out the decayed pulp, fills the space with a paste and covers the tooth with a crown to protect and seal it
If toothache cannot be treated by these methods, or if the tooth is impacted (wedged between another tooth and the jaw), it may need to be taken out altogether.
Painkillers
While you are waiting for an appointment with your dentist, to ease the pain you can take over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Children under 16 years of age should not be given aspirin. If you are unsure, speak to your dentist or pharmacist.
Try to avoid very hot or cold foods as they can make the pain worse.
