Toothache is pain in or around a tooth. A toothache is generally the result of tooth decay or sometimes an infection. Tooth decay is often caused by poor dental hygiene, although the tendency to get tooth decay is partly inherited. Sometimes, pain in other locations is perceived as occurring in the teeth (this is called referred pain or radiating pain).

Common Causes:

• Tooth decay
• Abscessed tooth
• Earache
• Injury to the jaw or mouth
• Acute MI (can include jaw pain, neck pain, or toothache)
• Sinusitis

The following are suggestions to help deal with toothaches:

• Aspirin, or other pain medicine when taken orally, can reduce pain until a dentist can examine the tooth. Do not give aspirin to children, and do not take prescription medications that were not given to you by your doctor for this purpose.
• Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean out unwanted food.
• Use dental floss and a water pick to remove trapped foods.
• Limit snacks and foods high in sugar.
• Do not place aspirin or acetaminophen on the aching tooth or gum tissue.
• No toothache will heal on its own. A toothache is a dental problem that needs to be treated as soon as possible.

For toothaches caused by a tooth abscess the dentist may recommend antibiotic therapy and other treatments, like root canal. To prevent tooth decay, use good oral hygiene. Sealants and fluoride applications by the dentist are important for preventing tooth decay.