Toothache

Toothache refers to pain in and around the teeth and jaws that’s usually caused by tooth decay.

You may feel toothache in many ways. It can come and go or be constant. Eating or drinking can make the pain worse, particularly if the food or drink is hot or cold.

The pain can also be mild or severe. It may feel “sharp” and start suddenly. It can be worse at night, particularly when you’re lying down. A lost filling or broken tooth can sometimes start the pain.

It can also sometimes be difficult to decide whether the pain is in your upper or lower teeth. When a lower molar tooth is affected, the pain can often feel like it’s coming from the ear.

Toothache in other upper teeth may feel like it’s coming from the sinuses, the small, air-filled cavities behind your cheekbones and forehead.

The area of your jaw close to the infected tooth may also be sore and tender to touch.

It’s also possible for periodontal disease to give rise to a “dull” pain. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that affects the soft and hard structures that support the teeth.

When To See Your Dentist

If you have toothache for more than one or two days, visit your dentist as soon as possible to have it treated. The longer you leave it, the worse it will get.

If your toothache isn’t treated, the pulp inside your tooth will eventually become infected. This can usually lead to a dental abscess, with severe and continuous throbbing pain.

Painkillers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, may reduce the pain and discomfort while you’re waiting for an appointment. Children under 16 years of age shouldn’t be given aspirin.

SOURCE: NHS UK

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Toothache/Pages/Introduction.aspx