Causes of toothache and how to prevent pain in teeth

Reading time: 7 mins

Toothache can be a debilitating experience, leading to a great deal of pain and frustration. It’s also something that likely affects most of us at some point in our lives. Understanding what toothache is caused by, adopting preventive measures, and practising ways to deal with it, then, is important. In this article, we delve into the various causes of toothache as well as how to soothe toothache and how to prevent toothache.

What is toothache caused by?

Wondering ‘why does my tooth ache?’ Toothache can stem from several underlying factors, including these common causes of toothache:

Dental Decay. The most prevalent cause of toothache is dental decay, commonly known as cavities. When bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode tooth enamel, it leads to tooth decay, sensitivity, and eventually pain. Poor oral hygiene, excessive sugar consumption, and inadequate fluoride intake contribute to dental decay.^{1, 2}
Gum Disease. Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. When plaque and tartar accumulate along the gumline, it can cause inflammation, infection, and toothache.3 Poor oral hygiene, smoking, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions increase the risk of gum disease.⁴
Dental Abscess. An abscessed tooth occurs when a bacterial infection reaches the pulp of the tooth. This condition often causes severe toothache, accompanied by swelling and pus formation. Untreated cavities, trauma to the tooth, or poor dental health can lead to dental abscesses. ⁵
Tooth Fracture. Cracked or fractured teeth can expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, leading to toothache. Causes of tooth fractures can range from trauma and teeth grinding to biting hard objects.2 Weakening of teeth due to dental decay, large fillings, or age-related wear and tear can increase the likelihood of tooth fractures.

How to soothe toothache?

When experiencing toothache, it is essential to consult a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment. While natural remedies might provide temporary relief,6 they should not replace professional dental care. Here are a few measures to consider for when you’re wondering what to do with toothache and what’s good for toothache:

Over-the-counter pain relief. Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help manage toothache temporarily until you can visit your dentist.2 Follow the recommended dosage and consult with your doctor or dentist if you believe you have reason not to take the medication.
Saltwater rinse. A warm saltwater rinse can help reduce inflammation and alleviate mild toothache. 2 Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in 250 ml of warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. This rinse can provide temporary relief, but it is not a substitute for professional dental care.
Cold compress. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help numb the area, reducing pain and swelling.6 Wrap a bag of ice or a cold pack in a thin cloth and apply it to the outside of your cheek near the painful tooth. Limit the application to 10-15 minutes at a time with short breaks in between to avoid discomfort from too much cold.
Clove oil. One of the natural remedies for toothache, clove oil contains natural analgesic (pain relieving) and antibacterial properties that can help soothe toothache.9 Soak a cotton ball in clove oil and gently apply it to the affected area. Alternatively, you can use a clove oil mouth rinse by adding a few drops to a glass of water.

Remember, these remedies are only short-term solutions and should be used in conjunction with professional dental care. Consult your dentist for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment; they will always know best what to do with toothache.

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How to prevent toothache

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to toothache. Adopting good oral hygiene practices and making lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay and other dental problems. Here are some expert-approved methods for how to prevent toothache:

Regular brushing and flossing.² Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and use dental floss or a water flosser – like the Philips Sonicare Power Flosser – to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth. Pay attention to proper brushing technique and dedicate sufficient time to each brushing session.
Dental check-ups.² Schedule regular dental check-ups every six months to detect any potential dental issues early on and receive a professional cleaning. Your dentist can identify and address oral health concerns before they escalate into toothache or more severe conditions.
Balanced diet. Maintain a healthy diet low in sugary foods and drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay.7 Limit the consumption of sweets, fizzy drinks and sugary snacks. Instead, include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products for optimal oral health. Calcium-rich foods help strengthen teeth.8 For tips on healthier gums, check out our article on how to keep your gums in shape.
Fluoride use.² Fluoride is essential for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities. Ensure that your toothpaste contains fluoride, and if necessary, your dentist may recommend additional fluoride treatments.

How to prevent toothache: choosing the right toothbrush

Selecting the right toothbrush is crucial, especially if you experience toothache or have sensitive teeth. Whether you’re choosing between a manual or an electric toothbrush, or choosing between a rotating or sonic electric toothbrush, here are some key considerations:

Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles. Hard bristles can worsen tooth sensitivity and cause gum recession. Soft bristles effectively clean teeth without irritating your gums and teeth and causing unnecessary abrasion.
Consider electric Toothbrushes. Philips' electric toothbrushes can offer a solution for those experiencing toothache or sensitivity by using oscillating or sonic movements to provide a gentle and effective cleaning action.
Toothbrush Replacement. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become frayed. Looking after your toothbrush and replacing it when necessary is crucial, as worn-out bristles are less effective at removing plaque and can harbour bacteria. If you have a Philips electric toothbrush, you only need to replace the brush head, not the handle! Plus, thanks to our partnership with TerraCycle, you can recycle it safely, but more on that below.

Remember to consult your dentist for what can help a toothache and for personalised recommendations based on your dental health needs. They can assess your specific conditions and guide you in choosing the most suitable toothbrush and oral care routine.

Sustainable initiatives in our oral healthcare products

As part of our commitment to sustainability, Philips has implemented several initiatives in our oral healthcare offer.

Bio-based brush heads. In our efforts to decrease the reliance on virgin plastic, Philips now now designs brush heads made with 75% bio-based materials.
Recycling partnership. Philips has joined forces with TerraCycle to create a recycling programme for electric toothbrush heads and flosser nozzles. Through this partnership, they have made it easier for consumers to responsibly dispose of these items after use, promoting a more circular economy.
Paper-based packaging. Philips is taking steps to further minimise their environmental impact by transitioning to more and more paper-based packaging across their product line. This shift to paper-based packaging reduces their reliance on plastics and enhances the recyclability of packaging. By making conscious choices in their packaging practices, Philips aims to create a more environmentally responsible dental care experience.

Pain in the teeth – now you know what can help toothache

The causes of toothache can be various, including dental decay, gum disease, abscesses, and tooth fractures. So next time you’re wondering why does my tooth ache, consider those possibilities. While temporary relief can be sought through natural remedies for toothache, professional dental care is essential for long-term solutions.

By practicing good oral hygiene, scheduling regular check-ups, and making informed choices regarding toothbrushes and preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of toothache and maintain optimal dental health.

¹ Tooth decay, NHS Inform
² Toothache, NHS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/toothache/
³Gum Disease, NHS Inform
⁴ Periodontitis, Mayo Clinic
⁵ Dental abscess, NHS
⁶ Melzack R, Guité S, Gonshor A. Relief of dental pain by ice massage of the hand. Can Med Assoc J. 1980 Jan 26;122(2):189-91. PMID: 7363212; PMCID: PMC1801755.
⁷Moynihan P. Sugars and Dental Caries: Evidence for Setting a Recommended Threshold for Intake. Adv Nutr. 2016 Jan 15;7(1):149-56. doi: 10.3945/an.115.009365. PMID: 26773022; PMCID: PMC4717883. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4717883/
⁸ What to know about calcium deficiency and teeth, Medical News Today
⁹ J. Jesudasan, P.U. A. Wahab, M.R. M. Sekhar, Effectiveness of 0.2% chlorhexidine gel and a eugenol-based paste on postoperative alveolar osteitis in patients having third molars extracted: a randomised controlled clinical trial, 2015 Jul 15, DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjoms.2015.06.022