What are toothache and gum swelling?

Toothache and gum swelling happen when there's a problem with your teeth or gums, causing pain and discomfort.

​​​​​​​What are the symptoms of toothache and gum swelling?

A toothache and gum swelling usually causes pain on one side of your face that can be mild or very severe. The pain may be constant, throbbing or it may come and go.

If you have a toothache and gum swelling, you may also have other symptoms such as:

• redness or swelling of your jaw or face
• pain when chewing
• bleeding from your tooth or gums
• sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet food

The pain from a toothache may also cause pain in your:

• head
• ear
• jaw

​​​​​​​What causes toothache and gum swelling?

Possible causes of toothache and gum swelling include:

• tooth decay
• a dental injury or cracked tooth
• wisdom teeth coming through
• a dental abscess
• gum disease
• a mouth ulcer
• oral cancer — this is rare

​​​​​​​When should I see my dentist?

See a dentist as soon as possible if you have a toothache and gum swelling that:

• lasts for more than 2 days
• does not improve when you take pain-relief medicines

See your dentist if you have a toothache and gum swelling, as well as:

• a fever (a temperature over 38⁰C)
• trouble swallowing
• pain when you bite
• a bad taste in your mouth
• swelling in your cheek or jaw

Make sure you tell your dentist about any other medical conditions that you may have.

It's important to treat toothache and gum swelling to prevent complications.

Public dental services in Australia offer free or low-cost dental care to eligible people. Visit Services Australia or the Australian Government Dental Health page to:

• find out if you are eligible
• make an appointment with your local public health dental clinic

If you have private health insurance, check your extras cover to see what dental costs you can claim.

​​​​​​​When to seek urgent care

Get emergency medical care if your toothache or gum swelling causes:

• problems with breathing
• problems with speaking
• swelling around your eye or neck
  

Sometimes pain from your heart can feel like a toothache. Check your symptoms online to decide what to do next.

​​​​​​​How is the cause of toothache and gum swelling diagnosed?

Your dentist can usually diagnose the cause of toothache and gum swelling. Your dentist will:

• examine your mouth
• ask you about your dental and medical history
• ask if anything makes your toothache and gum swelling get better or worse

Your dentist may take an x-ray to help find the cause of your toothache and gum swelling.

​​​​​​​How are toothache and gum swelling treated?

Treatment will depend on the cause of your toothache and gum swelling. It may include:

• root canal therapy
• a filling
• a crown
• removal of the tooth, if it's badly infected

If you have gum disease, your dentist will clean your teeth and gums to remove plaque. They will recommend you brush and floss your teeth regularly. They may also recommend that you use a mouthwash.

Treating the cause of the toothache and gum swelling will help improve your symptoms.

​​​​​​​Self-care at home

It's important to take care of yourself at home until you can get dental treatment. Here are some things that might help:

• Make sure you keep your teeth and mouth clean — brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste after every meal.
• Eat foods that are easy to chew and swallow.
• Avoid drinks that are very hot or very cold.

Here are some pain-relief tips you can try at home:

• Rest with your head propped up on a pillow — lying flat can sometimes make dental pain feel worse.
• Gargling with salt water may provide relief for a mild toothache. Don't swallow the salt water.
• Try using a cold compress (such as an ice pack wrapped in a cloth) against the side of your face. This will help reduce swelling and provide pain-relief.

Medicines for toothache and gum swelling

If you are in pain, ask your doctor or pharmacist about pain-relief medicines. This could include paracetamol or ibuprofen. Always follow the instructions on the packet.

Antibiotics are usually not used for a toothache unless there is a clear infection.

​​​​​​​Other treatment options

Sometimes, an anaesthetic gel might be recommended to help with your symptoms for a short time. Ask your dentist or pharmacist if this is right for you.

​What are the complications of toothache and gum swelling?

Toothache and gum swelling can damage the tissues in your mouth. This may:

• make it harder for you to chew and swallow
• affect your nutrition
• affect your general health

If you don't treat dental problems, they can affect your overall health. Poor oral health is linked to:

• diabetes
• heart disease
• problems with pregnancy
• stroke
• breathing problems
• oral cancer

Can toothache and gum swelling be prevented?

Taking care of your mouth helps prevent toothache and gum swelling. Here are some tips to help keep your mouth healthy:

• Brush and floss your teeth regularly.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
• Avoid foods and drinks high in sugar.
• Drink water containing fluoride.
• Avoid or limit smoking or vaping.
• Avoid using your teeth to open items.

Read more about dental and mouth care.

​​​​​​​Resources and support

The Teeth.org.au page offers information on:

• brushing and flossing your teeth
• tooth erosion
• fluoride

Languages other than English

If English is not your preferred language, the Teeth.org.au website offers resources in languages other than English.

Easy Read information is available on when you should see your dentist.

​​​​​​​Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

For Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, the Teeth.org.au website offers resources. This includes information on visiting the dentist and healthy drink choices for your teeth.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria) for advice. A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.