Toothache Treatment: Best Painkillers and When to See a Dentist

Tooth pain can strike without warning. Whether it is a sharp jolt when drinking cold water or a constant, dull ache that keeps you awake at night, toothache is one of the most common reasons people seek emergency dental care.

This guide covers the most common causes of toothache, over-the-counter painkillers, home remedies, when stronger dentist-prescribed medication may be needed, and — importantly — when professional assessment is essential.

What Causes Toothache?

Toothache is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Several underlying conditions can cause dental pain, including:

• Tooth decay (cavities) — bacteria erode enamel and reach the sensitive inner layers of the tooth
• Dental abscess — a pocket of infection at the root of a tooth or in the gums
• Cracked or chipped tooth — exposes the nerve and causes sharp pain
• Gum disease — inflammation or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth
• Lost filling or crown — leaves the tooth exposed and vulnerable
• Wisdom tooth eruption or impaction — pressure and inflammation at the back of the mouth

Only a clinical examination can determine the exact cause. Pain relief can help manage symptoms temporarily, but it does not treat the underlying condition.

Best Painkillers for Toothache

There are three levels of toothache pain relief, depending on severity:

Over-the-Counter Painkillers

Over-the-counter painkillers can help reduce toothache while you wait for a dental appointment. The following are generally considered effective for dental pain:

Home Remedies That May Help

While waiting for a dental appointment, the following measures may provide temporary relief:

• Saltwater rinse — dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gently rinse. This can help reduce bacteria and soothe inflamed gums.
• Cold compress — hold a wrapped ice pack against the outside of the cheek for 15–20 minutes. This can help reduce swelling and numb the area.
• Elevate your head — when lying down, prop your head up with an extra pillow. This can reduce blood flow to the area and ease throbbing pain.
• Avoid triggers — stay away from very hot, cold, or sugary food and drinks until the tooth has been assessed.
• Clove oil — contains eugenol, a natural anaesthetic. Apply a small amount to a cotton ball and hold against the affected area. Use sparingly.

These measures are temporary. They may help manage discomfort but they do not address the underlying dental problem.

Dentist-Prescribed Pain Relief

If over-the-counter painkillers are not controlling your toothache, your dentist may need to prescribe stronger medication. Prescription pain relief is not available from a pharmacy without a clinical assessment — this is for your safety.

A dentist may prescribe the following, depending on the clinical findings:

1. 1Stronger anti-inflammatories — higher-dose medication when standard ibuprofen is not managing the pain. Tailored to the individual based on medical history and other medications.
2. 2Antibiotics — not painkillers, but may be prescribed if the toothache is caused by an active infection or dental abscess. Only prescribed when clinically appropriate — antibiotics should not be used unnecessarily.
3. 3Codeine-based painkillers — for severe dental pain, a dentist may prescribe codeine or a codeine-paracetamol combination. These are short-term only, as codeine carries risks including drowsiness, constipation, and dependency. Not a first-line choice.

When to See a Dentist

Some toothaches resolve on their own — for example, minor sensitivity after a recent filling. However, you should arrange a dental appointment if you experience any of the following:

If you are unsure whether your symptoms require urgent attention, our emergency dentist page provides further guidance. You can also contact the clinic directly for advice.

What Happens at a Dental Appointment for Toothache?

When you visit the dentist with toothache, the appointment will typically involve:

• 1Clinical examination — visual assessment of the teeth and gums to identify the source of pain
• 2X-rays — to check for decay, abscess, or damage below the gum line
• 3Diagnosis — your dentist will explain the cause and discuss treatment options
• 4Treatment — depending on the cause, this may include a filling, root canal, extraction, or prescription for antibiotics

Treatment recommendations will depend on the clinical findings. Your dentist will always explain the options and associated costs before proceeding.

How to Prevent Toothache

Most dental pain is preventable. Simple daily habits can significantly reduce your risk:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Clean between teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes
• Limit sugary food and drinks
• Attend regular dental check-ups — at least every 6 to 12 months
• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night
• Do not ignore early symptoms — small problems are easier and less costly to treat

Conclusion

Toothache is your body's way of telling you something needs attention. Home remedies such as saltwater rinses and cold compresses can offer initial comfort. Over-the-counter painkillers — particularly ibuprofen — can help manage discomfort temporarily. And if those are not sufficient, your dentist can assess whether stronger, prescription-only medication is appropriate.

However, no painkiller — whether bought over the counter or prescribed — fixes the underlying problem. If pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by swelling or fever, prompt dental assessment is important. Early treatment is almost always simpler, more comfortable, and less expensive than waiting.