Toothache: causes and which doctor to see
Toothache is usually caused by decay, inflammation of the tooth nerve or gum problems and does not go away on its own; you need to see a dentist.
Which doctor should I see for toothache?
For toothache you can first see: Dentist or Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. If you are not sure, a family doctor can refer you to the right specialist.
What causes toothache?
The most common causes are listed below. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
- 1Tooth decay
- 2Inflammation of the tooth nerve (needing root canal treatment)
- 3Gum inflammation and abscess
- 4An impacted or erupting wisdom tooth
- 5A broken or cracked tooth
- 6Clenching and grinding the teeth
When is it an emergency? Call 112 now
- Is there swelling in the face or neck that is growing quickly
- Are you having difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up
- Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg
- Are you struggling to breathe even at rest
What you can do at home
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Put a cold compress on the outside of your cheek.
- Avoid very hot, very cold and sugary foods.
- Do not put tablets or other substances on the painful area; they can burn the gum.
See a doctor if
- The pain lasts more than a day
- There is fever or swelling in the gum
How long does it last and how is it treated?
Painkillers can ease a toothache temporarily, but it will not go away completely until the cause is treated. Decay or nerve inflammation may need a filling, root canal treatment or an extraction, so you need to see a dentist.
Treatment options for toothache
See how each treatment is done, how long it takes and which doctors offer it in your city. Your doctor will decide which option suits you after an examination.
Find a dentist in your city
Dentists in Turkish cities who can help with toothache.
People also describe it as
- “My tooth hurts”
- “My tooth is throbbing”
- “I have a tooth abscess and my face is swollen”
- “I had a tooth pulled and it still hurts”
Frequently asked questions
Which doctor should I see for toothache?
For toothache you can first see: Dentist or Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.
What causes toothache?
The most common causes: tooth decay; inflammation of the tooth nerve (needing root canal treatment); gum inflammation and abscess; an impacted or erupting wisdom tooth; a broken or cracked tooth; clenching and grinding the teeth. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
How long does toothache last and how is it treated?
Painkillers can ease a toothache temporarily, but it will not go away completely until the cause is treated. Decay or nerve inflammation may need a filling, root canal treatment or an extraction, so you need to see a dentist.
What stops a toothache?
A cold compress and rinsing with warm salt water bring temporary relief. If you are going to take a painkiller, ask your pharmacist which one is suitable for you, and see a dentist as soon as possible.
Which doctor should I see for gum pain?
See a dentist. Gum specialists (periodontists) also work in this area.
What should I do about a toothache that starts at night?
Sleep with your head slightly raised, put something cold on the outside of your cheek and book a dentist the next day. If there is swelling in the face that is growing quickly or difficulty swallowing, go to the emergency department.
When is toothache an emergency?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is there swelling in the face or neck that is growing quickly?” “Are you having difficulty swallowing or breathing?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”
When should I see a doctor for toothache?
See a doctor: the pain lasts more than a day; there is fever or swelling in the gum.
Similar complaints
Emergency numbers in Turkey
112: ambulance, emergency (free, 24/7, from any phone). 114: National Poison Information Centre. 182: appointment line for public hospitals (MHRS). Pharmacies on night duty (nöbetçi eczane) are posted on the door of every pharmacy.
Sources
This page is based on current information published by the official and independent bodies below and on our editorial principles. Last updated: . To report an error: contact us.
This page does not provide a medical diagnosis and does not replace an examination by a doctor. If you think it is an emergency, call 112 (Turkey’s free emergency number). For poisoning, call the National Poison Information Centre on 114.