Toothache: what to do before your appointment

First steps

• keep the area clean with gentle brushing
• avoid very cold, very hot or hard foods
• rinse with lukewarm water
• never place aspirin directly on the gum
• do not apply heat to the cheek

What the type of pain suggests

Short pain triggered by cold or sweet may point to sensitivity or decay. Spontaneous, throbbing pain, especially at night, often suggests the dental pulp is involved.

These descriptions are indicative only: a diagnosis requires clinical examination.

When you need to be seen quickly

• swelling of the face or neck
• fever alongside dental pain
• difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth
• trauma with a fractured or loosened tooth