Dental problem

Toothache: causes, relief and when to get help

Tooth pain is a signal that something needs attention. Here's how to understand what you're feeling — and what we can do about it.

Woman holding her cheek because of tooth pain

Symptoms

What toothache can feel like

  • Sharp, throbbing or constant pain
  • Pain when biting or chewing
  • Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet
  • Swelling around the tooth or jaw
  • Tender, red or bleeding gums
  • A bad taste in the mouth

Common causes

What might be behind the pain

  • Tooth decay

    Cavities that reach the inner layers of the tooth.

  • Cracked or broken tooth

    A fracture can expose sensitive parts of the tooth.

  • Gum problems

    Inflamed or infected gums can ache around teeth.

    Read about bleeding gums
  • Infection

    An infected nerve or abscess, often with swelling.

  • Worn fillings

    Old or damaged fillings can let bacteria in.

  • Wisdom teeth

    Teeth coming through at the back can cause pressure and pain.

When to see a dentist

How soon should you book?

Contact a dentist promptly

  • Swelling in your face, gum or jaw
  • Fever alongside tooth pain
  • Pain that keeps you awake or isn't eased by pain relief
  • A bad taste that may suggest infection

Book an appointment soon

  • Pain lasting more than a day or two
  • Sensitivity that keeps coming back
  • A chipped tooth or lost filling
  • Gums that bleed regularly

If the pain is severe or your face is swollen, contact our emergency dentist in Dubai team. Seek emergency medical care straight away if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Possible treatments

Treating the cause

The right treatment depends on what your dentist finds. Options may include:

If the nerve is infected, root canal treatment in Dubai aims to save the tooth.

  • Fillingsfor decay
  • Root canal treatmentfor an infected nerve
  • Extractionwhen a tooth can't be saved
  • Professional cleaning for gum-related pain

At the clinic

What happens when you visit

  1. 1

    Tell us about the pain

    Where it hurts, when it started and what makes it worse.

  2. 2

    Examination

    Your dentist checks the tooth and gums, and may recommend an X-ray.

  3. 3

    Diagnosis and options

    You'll hear what's causing the pain and the treatment options, with costs, before anything begins.

  4. 4

    Relief

    Treatment to address the cause — and advice for the days after.

Patient reviews

What patients say.

I had my tooth extraction done by Dr. Aliya, and the experience was smooth and comfortable. She was very professional, gentle, and explained everything clearly before starting the procedure. I felt at ease throughout. I would definitely recommend her for dental treatments.

Patrick James Gianan Google review · Al Rigga (Deira)

Questions

Toothache FAQs

Can't find your answer? Message us — the team replies on WhatsApp.

Ask on WhatsApp

Pain can come and go, but the cause — such as decay or infection — usually remains. It's best to have it checked so it doesn't get worse.

Appointments

Get your toothache checked.

Message us on WhatsApp to book your visit. Our team will help you find a convenient appointment time.