What should I do if I have a toothache?

Hi there! If you’re reading this with one hand on your jaw and the other searching “What should I do if I have a toothache?”—you’re not alone, and you’re in the right place.

Toothaches can sneak up on you—during dinner, in the middle of the night, or just when you’re about to head out for a vacation. And let me tell you, nothing puts a damper on your plans like a throbbing tooth.

As a dentist, I’ve seen all types of toothaches: sharp, dull, sudden, or lingering. While every case is unique, here’s a simple guide to help you understand what to do when a toothache strikes—and when it’s time to call us.

Step 1: Don’t Ignore It

A toothache is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. Whether it’s tooth decay, an infection, a cracked tooth, or even gum disease, pain is a red flag. If your tooth hurts for more than a day or two, it’s time to take it seriously.

Pro tip: Just because the pain goes away doesn’t mean the problem is gone. Nerves can “die” after infection, giving you a false sense of relief—until things get worse.

Step 2: Try These Home Remedies (Short-Term Relief Only!)

Before you make it to the dentist, here are a few things you can try at home to ease your toothache:

• Rinse with warm salt water. It helps reduce inflammation and may clear out any trapped debris.
• Cold compress. Apply a cold pack on your cheek to reduce swelling.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help temporarily. Follow the directions and don’t put aspirin directly on the tooth (that’s an old myth that can actually burn your gums).
• Clove oil. It’s been used for centuries for natural pain relief. Just dab a tiny amount on a cotton swab and apply it gently.

These might bring short-term relief, but remember: home remedies are not a cure. You still need to see a dentist to get to the root of the problem—literally.

Step 3: Call Your Dentist ASAP

If your toothache is keeping you up at night, causing swelling, making it hard to chew, or if you have a fever—don’t wait. These are signs of infection, and dental infections can spread quickly if left untreated.

At our office, we take tooth pain seriously. We’ll do an exam, take necessary X-rays, and get to the bottom of what’s causing your discomfort—whether it’s a cavity, abscess, cracked filling, or something else.

The good news? Most toothaches can be treated quickly once diagnosed, and the relief afterward is immediate.

Step 4: Prevent the Next Toothache

No one wants a repeat performance. The best way to avoid future toothaches?

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily
• Get regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
• Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or using your teeth as tools (we’ve seen it all).
• Address dental problems early—small cavities are easier (and cheaper) to fix than big ones.

Bottom Line

If you’re wondering what to do when you have a toothache, here’s the quick answer: Don’t wait it out. A little pain today can turn into a bigger issue tomorrow. Call your dentist, get it checked, and get back to feeling like yourself again.

And hey, if you’re nearby, our office is here to help. We’ve got same-day emergency appointments, a gentle touch, and a team that truly cares.

Your smile deserves to be pain-free!

Got a toothache? Call us or schedule online. Let’s take care of it—together.