Toothache can result from decay, pulp inflammation, infection, a cracked tooth, gum disease, trauma, grinding or pain referred from the jaw or sinus. Painkillers may reduce symptoms temporarily, but diagnosis is needed to treat the cause and judge whether a tooth can be restored.
WHICH DOCTOR SHOULD I SEE?
See a dental surgeon for toothache
At Lotus Hospital in HSR Layout, toothache is assessed by the Dental & Maxillofacial Care team. For severe or sudden symptoms, go to the nearest emergency department or call 112.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Dr. K. Arati Rao
Also listed as Dr. Arthi Rao
- Qualifications
- BDS, MDS (Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery)
- Experience
- 22 years overall; 21 as specialist
- Fee
- ₹700
- Registration
- KSDC 14783-A
★ 100% (14 votes) on Practo
Wisdom tooth surgery · Dental implants · Jaw and facial concerns
What the pain pattern can suggest
Brief sensitivity to cold, prolonged throbbing, pain on biting and pain that wakes someone at night have different implications. Swelling, fever, a bad taste or difficulty opening the mouth can indicate infection.
A dental examination and targeted radiograph often identify the source. Not every painful tooth needs root canal treatment, and antibiotics alone do not remove an infected tooth source.
- Hot and cold response
- Pain on biting
- Spontaneous or night pain
- Swelling or discharge
- Recent dental work or trauma
- Cracks and tooth wear
Urgent dental warning signs
Rapidly increasing facial or neck swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, drooling, eye swelling, fever with marked illness or uncontrolled bleeding needs urgent care. A knocked-out permanent tooth also requires immediate dental advice.
- Airway or swallowing difficulty
- Spreading facial swelling
- Fever and deterioration
- Eye involvement
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Major facial trauma
Treatment follows restorability
Options can include a filling, gum treatment, root canal treatment, drainage or extraction depending on diagnosis and remaining tooth structure. Each option has different time, cost, prognosis and maintenance requirements.
Do not place aspirin on the gum or use leftover antibiotics. Share pregnancy, allergies, blood thinners and medical conditions before treatment.
- Treat the source
- Preserve a restorable tooth when appropriate
- Use antibiotics only when indicated
- Plan the final restoration
- Discuss replacement after extraction
- Maintain preventive care
Managing symptoms until review
Use pain medicine only according to professional or label guidance and personal medical suitability. Keep the area clean and avoid extreme temperature or chewing on the painful side. These measures do not replace dental assessment.
- Arrange timely dental care
- Use medicines safely
- Avoid direct chemical remedies
- Maintain gentle cleaning
- Choose soft foods temporarily
- Seek help if swelling spreads
Medical information is general and does not replace an individual consultation.
PATIENT QUESTIONS
Toothache: questions patients ask
What causes toothache?
Common causes include tooth decay, a cracked or broken tooth, a loose or damaged filling, gum disease, an abscess, an erupting or impacted wisdom tooth, and grinding the teeth. Sinus problems can sometimes cause pain in the upper back teeth. A dental examination and X-ray usually identify the cause.
What can I do for toothache at home before seeing a dentist?
Rinse with warm salt water, gently floss to remove trapped food, take a suitable over-the-counter painkiller as directed and avoid very hot, cold or sweet foods. Do not place aspirin or other tablets on the gum, as they can burn the tissue. Arrange a dental visit soon.
Will toothache go away on its own?
Pain may ease temporarily, but the underlying problem usually remains. An infected tooth can stop hurting when the nerve dies, while the infection continues to spread. It is best to see a dentist even if the pain settles, so the cause can be treated early.
Does toothache mean I need a root canal?
Not always. Some toothaches are treated with a filling, gum treatment or adjusting the bite. A root canal is needed when the pulp inside the tooth is infected or irreversibly inflamed. If the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be advised. Your dentist will explain the options.
When is toothache an emergency?
Seek urgent care for facial or neck swelling, difficulty breathing, swallowing or opening the mouth, high fever, or swelling spreading towards the eye. These can indicate a spreading infection. Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department for breathing or swallowing difficulty.
Which doctor should I see for toothache at Lotus?
A dentist from the dental and maxillofacial team can find the cause of the pain and treat it. Book online with a dental specialist listed on the Dental & Maxillofacial Care page, send a WhatsApp message, or call the care team on +91 80505 98999. Mention any swelling or fever.
LOCATION & DIRECTIONS
Getting to Lotus Hospital, HSR Layout
Lotus Multi Speciality Hospital
2361, 24th Main Road, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102
Near Bangalore One, HSR Layout 1st Sector
Open 24 hours, 7 days · OPD timings vary by doctor
Lotus is on 24th Main Road in Sector 1, near Bangalore One. Autos and cabs can drop at the entrance on 24th Main.
Head into HSR Sector 1 from the Agara Lake side of the Outer Ring Road and continue to 24th Main Road.
Take the Sarjapur Road or 27th Main HSR approach towards Sector 1, then turn onto 24th Main Road.
Travel along the Outer Ring Road towards Agara, enter HSR Layout Sector 1 and continue to 24th Main Road.
Use the Outer Ring Road from Silk Board towards HSR Layout and turn into Sector 1.
Cross from Hosur Road into HSR Layout through the Sector 7 side and continue north to Sector 1.
Come towards Agara and the Outer Ring Road junction, then into HSR Layout Sector 1.
Take Hosur Road to Silk Board, then the Outer Ring Road into HSR Layout. Best for planned visits.
Travel time changes with traffic. Check live directions before you leave and allow time for registration.