What is toothache and swelling?

Toothache and swelling happen when there’s a problem with your teeth or gums, causing pain and discomfort.

If you don’t treat it, toothache and swelling can get worse. Visit a dentist as soon as you can, if your symptoms are not better within 2 days.

What symptoms relate to toothache and swelling?

Toothache can start suddenly and is usually on one side of your face. It can cause pain and discomfort that is mild or very severe.

The pain can be constant, throbbing, or it may come and go. It can also affect your head, ear and jaw.

If you have toothache, you may also have:

• swelling around your tooth and inside your mouth
• swelling of your jaw and face
• pain when chewing
• bleeding from your tooth or gums
• sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet food

What causes toothache and swelling?

Some possible causes of toothache and swelling are:

• tooth decay
• a dental injury or cracked tooth
• wisdom teeth coming through
• a loose or broken filling
• a dental abscess
• gum disease

A sinus infection, a mouth ulcer or a problem with your jaw can also give you painful teeth.

When should I see my dentist?

Make an appointment with a dentist if a toothache or mouth swelling lasts for more than 2 days.

Tell your dentist about any other medical conditions that you have.

See your doctor if you have:

• a fever (a temperature over 38⁰C)
• trouble breathing or swallowing

When to seek urgent care

If your mouth swelling is causing problems with your breathing, see a doctor urgently.

Sometimes pain from your heart can feel like tooth pain. Check your symptoms online to decide what to do next.

How is the cause of toothache and swelling diagnosed?

Your dentist will examine your teeth and may take an x-ray. They will ask you about your dental and medical history.

They might ask if anything makes your toothache pain and swelling get better or worse.

How is toothache and swelling treated?

Treatment will depend on the cause of the toothache or swelling. It may include:

• root canal therapy
• a filling
• a crown
• possible removal of the tooth if it’s badly infected

Sometimes, antibiotics may be needed.

If you have gum disease, your dentist will provide appropriate gum treatment. They will recommend regular brushing and flossing, and possibly a mouth rinse.

Treating the cause of the tooth pain or swelling will help provide pain relief.

Self-care at home

It’s important to take care of yourself at home until you can get dental treatment.

Make sure you keep your teeth and mouth clean. Brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush after every meal.

If you smoke, try to cut down or quit.

Eat foods that are easy to chew and swallow.

Avoid drinks that are very hot or very cold.

Here are some pain-relief tips you can try at home:

• Rest with your head propped up on a pillow, since lying flat can sometimes make dental pain feel worse.
• Gargling with salt water may provide relief from mild toothache. Don’t swallow the salt water.
• Try using a cold compress (such as an ice pack wrapped in a cloth) against the side of your face. This will help reduce swelling and provide pain relief.

Medicines for toothache and swelling

If you are in pain, ask your doctor or pharmacist about pain-relief medicines. These could include paracetamol or ibuprofen. Always follow the instructions on the packet.

It’s not recommended to use clove oil or gargle aspirin.

Antibiotics are not commonly used for toothache unless there is visible mouth swelling.

Other treatment options

In some cases, a local anaesthetic gel might be recommended for short-term use. Speak with your dental professional or pharmacist to find the best treatment for you.

Can toothache and swelling be prevented?

Taking care of your mouth helps prevent toothache and swelling.

• Brush and floss your teeth regularly.
• Eat a healthy balanced diet.
• Avoid sugary and fatty foods.
• Drink water containing fluoride.
• Avoid smoking.
• Avoid using your teeth to open items.

Complications of toothache and swelling

It’s important to treat the cause of your toothache and swelling.

Poor mouth health can damage the tissues in your mouth, leading to long-term problems. It can make it harder for you to chew and swallow, and it can affect your nutrition and general health.

Untreated dental problems can also affect your overall health. Poor oral health is linked to:

• diabetes
• heart disease
• problems with pregnancy
• stroke
• breathing problems

Resources and support

Find out more about looking after your teeth from the Australian Dental Association consumer website teeth.org.au.

You can read more about dental and mouth care.

Easy Read information is available on when you should see your dentist.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline for advice about toothache on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.