A toothache can strike at the worst moment. The pain usually signals a serious problem – caries, pulpitis, abscess or trauma – and requires treatment.
Most common causes of toothache
- Deep caries – sensitivity to cold/hot/sweet
- Pulpitis – throbbing pain that worsens at night
- Periodontitis / abscess – swelling and pain in the gum
- Cracked tooth – pain when biting
- Erupting wisdom tooth
- Gingivitis
What you can do at home
- Rinse with warm salt water (1 tsp salt per glass)
- Take an over-the-counter painkiller (ibuprofen, paracetamol) as directed
- Remove food debris with floss
- Apply a cold compress to the cheek (15 min on, 15 min off)
- Avoid very hot, cold or sweet food/drink
What NOT to do
- Don't place aspirin directly on the tooth or gum – it causes chemical burns
- Avoid warm compresses – they worsen inflammation
- Don't self-prescribe antibiotics
- Don't delay seeing a dentist, even if the pain subsides
When to see a dentist urgently
The following symptoms need attention within 24 hours:
- Facial or neck swelling
- High fever (above 38°C)
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Severe pain lasting more than 3 days
- Pus from the gum
These may indicate an abscess or spreading infection – delay is risky.
Emergency dental care at German Dental Clinic Baku
We offer same-day urgent consultations on weekdays. Precise diagnostics under microscope, painless anesthesia and single-visit endodontic protocols.
Book online or call +994 10 208 01 04.
