Just ask anyone who’s ever had prolonged pain in one or more teeth and they’ll tell you that a toothache is no small matter. In simplest terms, toothache refers to any discomfort in or around your teeth, but this feeling may result from any number of causes.

What Causes the Pain?

Mild to severe dental pain is usually an indication of tooth decay, or a cavity. Bacteria that live in your mouth survive off the sugar and starches in your food. Over time, they produce acids that can break down tooth enamel and lead to uncomfortable toothaches.

In addition, other conditions may lead to tooth pain, including a broken tooth, chipped teeth, infection, gum disease or emergence of wisdom teeth. In some cases, more serious afflictions, such as heart attack or sinusitis, may also cause pain in the teeth. Only your dentist can determine what’s truly causing your toothache, so make sure to get professional care if your pain persists.

Dealing With Discomfort

Until you can see the dentist, you may find some relief with good habits, pain relievers or home remedies. Some past toothache survivors have suggested:

- Using dental floss to remove any food particles that may be to blame

- Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever

- Applying an over-the-counter antiseptic containing benzocaine

- Avoiding very hot or very cold foods

While any of these may provide temporary relief, your dentist will need to address the cause of the toothache for a permanent solution. A dental X-ray will usually be used to check for decay or other problems. Then your dentist can perform the appropriate treatment, such as fillings, extraction or a root canal. Make sure to give a detailed explanation of where and when your tooth aches to help diagnose the problem.

Keep Decay Away

Good oral hygiene, including regular flossing and brushing, is the best way to ensure your teeth stay healthy and toothache-free. It’s also a good idea to avoid excessive sugar and snacks between meals. Finally, seeing your dentist regularly will help prevent and identify problems before they become serious and keep your teeth looking and feeling great.

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