Tooth Aches: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Tooth Aches?
A dentist usually treats tooth aches. Some cases need an endodontist, who treats the inside of the tooth, or an oral surgeon, who performs complex tooth removal. A general dentist can handle most causes and will refer you if needed.
What is a tooth ache?
A tooth ache is pain in or around a tooth, ranging from a dull soreness to a sharp, throbbing pain. Most tooth aches come from problems a dentist can treat easily when caught early.
A tooth ache is not a disease by itself. It is a sign that something is wrong with a tooth, the gums, or the jaw. When decay, injury, or infection reaches the nerve inside the tooth, it can hurt.
Symptoms
Tooth ache pain can be sharp, throbbing, or a constant dull ache. The gums may be swollen, red, or tender, and the tooth may hurt more when you chew or touch something hot or cold. A bad taste or mild fever can signal infection.
Causes and who gets it
The most common cause is tooth decay, but gum disease, a cracked tooth, a loose filling, or an infection at the root can also cause pain. People who eat a lot of sugar or skip dental checkups are more likely to get them.
How doctors diagnose it
A dentist will ask about your pain and examine your teeth, gums, and mouth. They may tap on teeth, check how they respond to cold, and take X-rays to look for decay or infection.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. A cavity may need a filling, an infected pulp may need a root canal, and a badly damaged tooth may need to be removed. Over-the-counter pain medicine and rinsing with warm salt water can help while you wait for care.
When to see a doctor
See a dentist if tooth pain lasts more than a day or two, keeps getting worse, or comes with swelling, fever, or trouble swallowing or breathing. These can be signs of a spreading infection, which needs care right away.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either type can examine you and prescribe pain medicine or antibiotics, but they cannot fill cavities or do root canals, so they will refer you to a dentist for the repair.
Common questions
Can a tooth ache go away on its own?
Mild soreness from food stuck between teeth may fade once the cause is gone. Pain from decay or infection usually will not go away without treatment.
Should I put aspirin directly on a sore tooth?
No. Placing aspirin against the gum or tooth can burn the tissue. Swallow pain medicine as directed instead.
Can a tooth ache cause a headache or ear pain?
Yes. Pain from a tooth can spread to nearby areas, so people sometimes feel it in the head, ear, or jaw.
How can I lower my chance of getting tooth aches?
Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and limit sugary snacks and drinks. Regular dental checkups can catch small problems before they hurt.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Tooth Disorders
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Oral Health | Oral Health
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
