Toothache

PAIN in a tooth or in the jaw. Toothache typically suggests DENTAL CARIES (cavities) or other dental problems. Dentists provide care when this is the case. Early intervention minimizes tooth loss, the extent of other damage such as to the gums and jaw, and the extent of treatment.

Persistent jaw pain, particularly when it extends from the shoulder into the neck and jaw, can be an early warning sign of HEART ATTACK. A physician should evaluate such pain without delay.

NONSTEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen and naproxen effectively relieve most tooth pain in the short term. Topical anesthetics or products containing clove oil, designated for oral use (use in the mouth), temporarily relieve pain when applied to the tooth surface or surrounding gum tissue. Good ORAL HYGIENE and adequate dietary calcium and vitamin D help maintain tooth health.

A toothache sometimes indicates health conditions such as SINUSITIS (sinus infection), OTITIS (ear infection), migraine HEADACHE, TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDERS, and NEURALGIA (INFLAMMATION and irritation) affecting the nerves that supply the face. Physicians provide care for these conditions.