**Quick Answer (\u224850 words)**
A toothache can range from mild sensitivity to sharp, persistent pain. Rinse with warm water and floss gently to remove debris. If discomfort persists or is severe, contact your dentist. The ADA advises that ongoing or severe toothache warrants professional evaluation.
### Causes and symptoms
Toothaches have many causes. Cavities are the most common culprit—decay reaches the nerve and causes throbbing pain. Gum disease can also lead to toothache when infection affects the supporting tissues. Pulp inflammation or infection from a cracked tooth or deep filling triggers intense, lingering pain. Impacted food particles stuck between teeth or under the gum line create localized soreness. Sinus infections, especially in the upper jaw, may mimic tooth pain. Understanding the cause helps determine whether the situation is urgent or can wait for a regular appointment.
### When to see the dentist
Begin by rinsing your mouth with warm water and gently flossing to remove any trapped food. Never place aspirin directly on the tooth or gums, as the ADA warns this can burn your tissue. If the pain is dull and goes away after cleaning, monitor it. Severe, throbbing pain, pain that persists for more than a day or that wakes you at night, swelling, fever or a pimple on the gum are red flags. These symptoms may indicate infection or abscess, requiring prompt dental care. Our Mapleton team can perform x‑rays and tests to diagnose the problem and provide relief. Treatments may include fillings, root canal therapy or extractions depending on the cause.
### Prevention and self‑care
Prevent toothaches by maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss to remove plaque between teeth and schedule checkups every six months. A balanced diet low in sugary snacks and acidic drinks helps protect enamel. Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth. If you feel occasional sensitivity, use a desensitizing toothpaste and mention it at your next appointment. For emergency pain relief until you can see a dentist, over‑the‑counter pain medications and cold compresses can reduce discomfort—always follow package directions.
### Frequently Asked Questions
**When does a toothache require emergency care?**
Persistent or severe tooth pain, especially with swelling or fever, warrants urgent dental treatment. It may signal an infection that could spread if left untreated.
**What if the pain comes and goes?**
Intermittent pain often indicates early decay or a cracked tooth. Schedule an appointment to prevent progression. Waiting can turn a small cavity into a larger problem.
**Can I use home remedies to cure a toothache?**
Clove oil or saltwater rinses may provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying issue. Only a dentist can diagnose and treat the cause.
### Call to action
If tooth pain is keeping you up at night or interfering with meals, **contact Mapleton Family Dentistry** right away. We’ll determine whether your toothache is an emergency and provide gentle, effective care. Visit our [Emergency Dentistry](/services/emergency-dentistry) page for more information. You may also be interested in our article on [Signs You May Need a Root Canal](/signs-you-may-need-a-root-canal) for additional insight into persistent tooth pain.