Toothache is usually caused by caries. The severity of symptoms may range from a mild twinge to unbearable throbbing pain. Toothache can be relieved by self-care, but the cause of ache has to be checked at the dentist’s.
Toothache may be caused by a cavity, infection or an angry wisdom tooth. Sometimes toothache can occur after dental treatment following a filling, root canal or tooth extraction. Often toothache is caused by eating or drinking something cold or sweet. Hot and cold or tapping on the tooth may evoke the ache.
The first step in treating toothache is to try painkillers available at pharmacies without a prescription. Pharmacy staff will help you select the right product, if necessary. You can also try cold or hot compression.
You should always consult your dentist even if the toothache stops at first.
If you have a toothache, you should seek medical advice, even if the ache stops. If you have a toothache and clearly also some swelling on the facial area, you should contact emergency dental services.
Emergency care professionals have produced the instruction in collaboration with Terveyskirjasto.
