TOOTHACHE Symptom Definition Pain or discomfort in a tooth General Information Main cause of toothache is tooth decay (cavities). Complications of tooth decay can also cause a toothache, for example: abscess (pus pocket) around base of tooth and skin infection of cheek area overlying a tooth. Caution: Rarely individuals may have a toothache or jaw pain as the sole symptom of a heart attack. Usually there will be other accompanying symptoms of a heart problem, such as: chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea and/or sweating. See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If Toothache followed TOOTH INJURY WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR TOOTHACHE Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If Very weak (can't stand) Call Your Dentist or Doctor Now (night or day) If: You feel weak or very sick Fever is present Face is swollen Tongue is very swollen and tender Severe pain Call Your Dentist Within 24 Hours (between 9 am and 4 pm) If: You think you need to be seen Toothache present longer than 24 hours Brown cavity visible in the painful tooth Red or yellow lump (pus pocket) present at the gum line of the painful tooth Call Your Dentist During Weekday Office Hours If: You have other questions or concerns Easy bleeding present in other family members Hard-to-stop nosebleeds are a recurrent problem Self Care at Home If Mild toothache present less than 24 hours and you don't think you need to be seen Back to Top HOME CARE ADVICE FOR MILD TOOTHACHE Reassurance: Most toothaches are temporary and due to a sensitive tooth.  If the pain becomes worse or doesn't resolve in 24 hours, it could due to a small cavity. Floss: Floss on either side of the painful tooth to remove any wedged food. Pain Medication: For pain relief, take acetaminophen every 4-6 hours (e.g. Tylenol; adult dosage 650 mg) OR ibuprofen every 6-8 hours (e.g. Advil, Motrin; adult dosage 400 mg). Do not take ibuprofen if you have stomach problems, kidney disease, are pregnant, or have been told by your doctor to avoid this type of anti-inflammatory drug. Do not take ibuprofen for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor. Do not take acetaminophen if you have liver disease. Read the package instructions thoroughly on all medications that you take. Local Cold: Apply an ice pack to the painful jaw for 20 minutes Expected Course: Most minor causes of toothache resolve in less than a day. Call Your Doctor If: Toothache persists longer than 24 hours The toothache becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Dentist" symptoms. Back to Top Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. Adult HouseCalls Online. Copyright © 2000-2005 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP Reviewed 10/2005 Revised 8/2003 See Other Topics: Tooth Injury View Index of Topics