Medically Reviewed by Dr. Mohit Bodhwani (BDS, MDS - Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics)
Toothache: How to Get Relief, Why It Comes and Goes, and Which Painkiller to Use
A toothache is upsetting, and it often starts at the worst time. Dr. Mohit Bodhwani (Endodontist) at The Smile Makers Dental Clinic in Khar West, Mumbai, answers three questions patients ask us most. The short version: there are things you can do at home to feel better, but they are all temporary. The pain goes away for good only when the root cause is found and treated correctly.
How do I get my tooth to stop hurting?
It is upsetting when a tooth is hurting. Here is what you can do in the meantime:
- Avoid anything hot, cold or sweet, and avoid hard and sticky food.
- Eat something very simple and easy to chew.
- If the pain is severe, you can take a suitable anti-inflammatory painkiller. Please make sure you have no allergies related to it. Take it only under correct medical guidance and supervision.
- Rinse with warm saline water. It can relieve some of the inflammation in the gums.
All of these are temporary measures. Please seek expert guidance. The pain will go away for good only when the root cause is identified and treated correctly.
Why does my tooth only hurt sometimes during the day?
Intermittent toothache may be caused by tooth decay, sensitivity, a cracked tooth, a faulty filling or inflammation of the dental pulp (the nerve-containing tissue inside your tooth).
Even if the pain disappears, the underlying problem may still be present. A tooth that hurts now and then still needs to be examined, and the cause must be diagnosed using appropriate pulp testing, X-rays and a thorough clinical examination. If the cause turns out to be an inflamed or infected pulp, the usual treatment is a root canal. At our clinic a root canal is usually completed in a single visit of less than an hour. Read more on our Root Canal Treatment in Khar West page.
Which painkiller is best for toothache?
Anti-inflammatory painkillers can help many people, while another type of painkiller may be an alternative when appropriate. The safest choice depends on your medical history and other medicines you take, so check with your doctor or dentist first.
Painkillers provide temporary relief, not a cure. The tooth still needs to be examined and the cause treated.
Have a dental problem or want a check-up? Message the clinic on WhatsApp and we will help you book a time.
Book AppointmentWhen should you see a dentist?
Do not wait for the pain to go away on its own. If a tooth hurts, even on and off, book an examination. The cause of a toothache has to be diagnosed properly, using appropriate pulp testing, X-rays and a thorough clinical examination. We explain the cause and the options before any treatment. See our transparent fee structure.
Address: Sadanand Classic, Ground floor, A Wing, 2A, 33rd Rd, near McDonalds, Khar West, Mumbai 400052. Monday to Saturday 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM, Sunday closed.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a tooth to stop hurting?
Avoid hot, cold, sweet, hard and sticky food, eat something soft, rinse with warm saline water, and if the pain is severe take a suitable anti-inflammatory painkiller under medical guidance after checking for allergies. These are temporary measures. The pain stops for good only when the root cause is treated.
Why does my tooth hurt only at certain times of the day?
Intermittent toothache may be caused by decay, sensitivity, a cracked tooth, a faulty filling or inflammation of the dental pulp. Even if the pain goes away, the problem may still be there.
Which painkiller is best for a toothache?
Anti-inflammatory painkillers can help many people, and another type of painkiller may be an alternative when appropriate. The safest choice depends on your medical history and other medicines. Painkillers give temporary relief, not a cure.
How is the cause of a toothache diagnosed?
Through appropriate pulp testing, X-rays and a thorough clinical examination. Treatment is advised only after the cause is confirmed.
Can a root canal fix a toothache?
When the pain comes from an inflamed or infected pulp, a root canal treats the cause. It is usually completed in a single visit of less than an hour at our clinic.
Disclaimer: This article is general information and not a substitute for an examination. Check for any allergy before taking any painkiller. Painkillers carry a risk of allergic reaction and side effects, and must be taken strictly under medical supervision.