Tooth Pain You Can’t Ignore? Here’s What You Can Do Right Now
Tooth pain could happen over time or it could occur all at once like the speed of light.
Whatever tooth pain you experience can be completely debilitating to the point where you struggle just to eat, talk, or sleep. Whether it is a miserable running molar, a throbbing sharp pain, or impaction, it is important to know how to respond in that moment. As you read this, you will see how to take those first best steps to alleviate pain, explain what can be labeled as causes of pain, and explain when you may want to consider going to the dentist.
Let’s get you through the pain first.
Common Causes of Severe Toothache
Identifying the source of the pain is important because it can help you treat it correctly and in a timely manner. Here are some causes of severe toothache:
Severe Tooth Decay: Deep cavities that go to the nerve (pulp) will cause throbbing pain.
Dental Abscess: An abscess is an infection of the root of a tooth or between the tooth and gum, e.g. – swollen gum, fever. A dental abscess can present without swelling or other obvious symptoms. Infections can develop quite rapidly.
Cracked/Fractured Tooth: A cracked or fractured tooth can present with sudden sharp pain while chewing or in reaction to changes in temperature.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Impaction describes misalignment resulting in pressure and inflammation in the gum area from wisdom teeth that are not positioned correctly.
Gum Infection or Periodontal disease: Infection of the gums and/or bone referred to as periodontal disease. Perio disease can result in deep pain, bleeding or sensitivity of the gums.
Failed Dental Work: A broken filling, crown or root canal failure can all lead to intense pain.
What to do at home, when you have the worst toothache ever
- Take the Pain Relief Medication as Directed
Ibuprofen, or paracetamol (according to recommended limits) will help decrease pain. Ibuprofen will decrease pain, but importantly it also decreases swelling, so this will be better if you have swelling. - Use a Cold Pack (on the Outside of your Mouth)
Get an ice pack or ice towel, wrap it around your cheek, and place it by the painful area for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. This numbs the area that is painful and also helps reduce inflammation and swelling. - Rinse with Warm Salt Water
Combine about 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Gently swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit. It cleans out the area and helps slow down and ultimately reduce bacteria. - Keep Your Head Elevated
When lying down at least keep your head elevated using pillows (above heart level). This helps reduce the amount of blood pressure in the mouth, minimizing that throbbing feeling and pain. - Gently but thoroughly clean up
Even if it hurts, clean around the sore area, gentle brushing and flossing; chew food that gets stuck between teeth increases the pain! Using a soft toothbrush, be careful not to move your toothbrush vigorously! - Avoid Triggers
- Hot or cold food and drinks.
- Sugary snacks or acidic beverages
- Chewing on the side of the pain
- These can increase sensitivity or aggravate a cracked tooth or nerve exposure.
- Clove Oil (Use With Caution)
Clove oil has natural numbing effects. Dab a little amount onto a cotton ball and gently place it next to (not directly on) the tooth causing pain. Do not ingest clove oil. Do not use if allergic or unsure. - Stay Hydrated & Eat Soft Food
Dehydration can exacerbate and cause inflammation. Take sips of water that is room temperature regularly. If you eat, then only eat soft foods that you can swallow easily, like mashed potatoes, yogurt or scrambled eggs – nothing chewy or crunchy. - Watch for Signs of Infection
Signs of infection include swelling, pus, bad taste in mouth, fever, difficulty opening mouth; these are signs of a dental abscess or infection potentially spreading and require quick evaluation.
What Causes Unbearable Tooth Pain?
Tooth pain becomes severe when the nerve inside the tooth is inflamed or exposed. Common causes include:
- Deep decay or untreated cavities
- Abscess (bacterial infection in tooth/gum)
- Cracked tooth
- Failed fillings or crowns
- Gum disease
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Sinus infections (can refer pain to upper teeth)
When to Call a Dentist Immediately
You’ve done your part with temporary relief — but if the pain:
- Lasts more than 1–2 days
- Worsens or comes with swelling/fever
- Wakes you up at night
- Affects your eating or speaking
- Comes after dental treatment (e.g. recent filling or root canal)
It’s time to see a dentist.
Professional Dental Help in Norwich
At Pearl Dental Surgery Norwich, we regularly treat emergency cases where patients walk in with severe pain — sometimes after trying everything at home. Depending on your diagnosis, you may need:
- Root canal treatment
- Deep cleaning
- Emergency extraction
- Antibiotics (in case of infection)
- Repair of broken crowns/fillings
Our dentists are experienced, empathetic, and use the latest techniques to make treatments as painless as possible. You’ll be in safe hands.
Final Thoughts
Unbearable tooth pain is your body’s way of shouting for help. While home remedies can offer temporary relief, they are not a cure. Acting fast with the right steps — and booking a dental appointment — can prevent bigger problems.
Don’t wait for it to go away on its own. It rarely does.