A toothache almost always signals something that needs treatment: a deep cavity, an inflamed nerve, a fracture, an infection or a wisdom tooth without space. Painkillers may ease it, but the cause does not go away on its own.
This guide explains what you can do until you see a dentist, what to avoid and the warning signs that need a hospital emergency room. It does not replace an evaluation: the diagnosis is made by a dentist who examines you.
The most common causes of toothache
The type of pain gives clues, although only an exam — and sometimes an X-ray — confirms the cause.
- Deep cavity: pain with sweets, cold or heat.
- Inflamed nerve (pulpitis): strong, spontaneous pain that may wake you up or linger after cold.
- Infection or abscess: throbbing pain, swollen gums, a bad taste or pus.
- Cracked tooth: pain when biting or releasing the bite.
- Wisdom tooth: pain at the back of the mouth, swollen gums, sometimes trouble opening.
- Gums: diffuse discomfort, bleeding and sensitivity from gum disease.
What to do until your appointment
These steps can make you more comfortable but do not replace treatment:
- Rinse with warm water and floss to remove trapped food.
- Avoid chewing on the painful side and very cold, hot or sweet foods.
- If there is swelling, apply cold to the outside of the cheek for 10–15 minutes, with a cloth in between.
- If you take a painkiller, follow your doctor's or pharmacist's directions and the dose on the label.
- Note when the pain started and what makes it worse — it helps the diagnosis.
What not to do
Some home remedies can make things worse or delay treatment:
- Don't put tablets on the gum: they can burn it.
- Don't take antibiotics without a prescription.
- Don't apply heat to a swollen face.
- Don't wait for the pain to go away on its own.
Warning signs: when to go to a hospital emergency room
Some situations should not wait for a dental appointment. Go to a hospital emergency room if you have:
- Swelling of the face or neck that grows quickly.
- Difficulty swallowing, breathing or opening your mouth.
- High fever or feeling generally unwell.
- A strong blow to the face or jaw, especially with loss of consciousness.
- Bleeding that doesn't stop after pressing with gauze.
What treatment might your tooth need?
Treatment depends on the cause. These are the most common; current starting prices for international patients are in our price guide.
| Likely cause | Usual treatment |
|---|---|
| Cavity without nerve damage | Composite filling |
| Inflamed or infected nerve | Root canal |
| Tooth that can't be saved | Extraction |
| Painful wisdom tooth | Surgical extraction |
How we handle emergencies at Burbano Dental Studio
We see emergencies during clinic hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Message us on WhatsApp and we will give you the first available time — useful if the pain starts while you are visiting Bogotá.
At the visit we examine the area, relieve the pain when possible and explain the definitive treatment and its cost before doing it.
The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not replace a professional dental evaluation. Results may vary between patients.