Key Takeaway
Toothache can stem from many causes — from simple sensitivity to severe dental infections. The best treatment depends on the root cause: for minor decay or chips, fillings or protective treatments may suffice; for deep decay or infected pulp, root canal treatment or extraction may be needed; for abscesses, drainage and antibiotics may be urgent. Early diagnosis and prompt care not only relieve pain but prevent serious complications.
Why Some Toothaches Require Professional Treatment
Toothache is extremely common — many people assume it will go away on its own. But what begins as a small ache or sensitivity can sometimes worsen over days or weeks, as bacteria penetrate deeper into the tooth or surrounding tissue. Left untreated, what may start as a minor cavity or crack can evolve into infection, abscess, bone loss or even risk spreading beyond the mouth.
- Minor enamel wear, sensitivity, or mild gum irritation often improve with simple care
- Once decay reaches the tooth pulp (nerve), or a crack exposes internal tissue, bacteria can infect the nerve chamber and root.
- Infections may lead to accumulation of pus (abscess), swelling, pain radiating to jaw or ear, and systemic symptoms like fever.
Because of these risks, many toothaches require more than home remedies — they demand professional dental treatment. Recognising when toothache is “just sensitivity” and when it’s dangerous is crucial.
💡 If your pain intensifies, lingers, or changes (e.g. throbbing, swelling, hot/cold‑free pain), seek a dental exam — early detection can save the tooth. Visit Whites Dental for same day toothache treatment at a dental clinic in London.
Overview Of Common Dental Treatments For Toothache
Here’s a summary of treatments commonly used to relieve toothache, depending on the cause:
- Protective / Restorative: white fillings, inlays/onlays, crowns.
- Endodontic treatment: root canal therapy (RCT).
- Abscess management: drainage + possible antibiotics.
- Extraction: removal of non‑savable teeth
- Periodontal treatment: cleaning for gum‑related pain
- Pain relief and temporary care: analgesics, mouth rinses, interim restorations
Each treatment suits different situations — the key is correct diagnosis.
💡 A dentist’s examination (clinical + X‑rays) will identify which treatment is appropriate — avoid guesswork at home.
How Dentists Determine Which Treatment You Need
Determining the right treatment begins with a thorough clinical assessment:
Clinical Assessment and Diagnostics
- Patient history: when did pain start, what triggers it, any previous dental work or trauma.
- Visual inspection: look for decay, cracks, gum inflammation, swelling, pus, or abscess.
- Sensitivity and pulp testing: cold/hot/sensitivity tests to assess nerve vitality
- Percussion/mobility tests: tap the tooth, check for tenderness or looseness.
- Radiographs (X‑rays): detect deep decay, root involvement, abscess, bone loss or fracture.
Once diagnosis is clear, the dentist recommends treatment tailored to the problem.
💡 Share a clear history of your symptoms — when, how and what makes pain worse — it helps tailor the right treatment plan.
Protective And Restorative Treatments: When Toothache Comes From Decay Or Minor Damage

White Fillings, Inlays/Onlays, Crowns
- For decay that hasn’t reached the pulp, removing the decay and placing a high‑quality filling (white/composite or ceramic) can stop the progression and relieve sensitivity or mild pain.
- In cases of larger decay or early structural weakness, inlays/onlays or crowns offer extra protection — restoring strength and preventing cracks.
- After filling or restoration, sensitivity may linger briefly, but it typically resolves as tooth stabilises.
Minor Crack Or Chip Repair
- If a small crack or chip is detected before bacteria enter deep tissues, a restoration (bonding or crown) can seal and protect the tooth.
- This prevents infection, avoids root canal treatment, and often relieves the patient’s discomfort.
Advantages of Restorative Treatments
- Minimally invasive compared to extraction.
- Preserves natural tooth structure.
- Often completed in one (filling) or two visits (crown).
Possible Limitations
- Only effective if decay or damage hasn’t reached the pulp.
- Deep cracks, pulp exposure, or previous nerve involvement can make these inadequate — requiring more advanced care.
💡 Don’t wait for pain to worsen — treat early decay or damage promptly to avoid more complex treatment later.
Root Canal Treatment (Endodontics): Saving The Tooth When Pulp Is Infected
When decay or trauma penetrates the pulp (nerve chamber), bacteria can infect inner tissues — causing persistent pain, sensitivity, and sometimes abscess. Root canal treatment (RCT) is often the best way to save the natural tooth in such cases.
What Happens During Root Canal Treatment
- Under local anaesthetic, the dentist removes the infected or inflamed pulp tissue inside the root canals.
- The canals are cleaned, shaped, disinfected, and medicated.
- Canals are sealed with inert material; often followed by a permanent filling and sometimes a crown for strength.
- The restored tooth can then function like any healthy tooth.
When RCT Is Recommended
- Persistent throbbing or spontaneous pain not triggered by temperature.
- Deep decay seen on X‑ray reaching pulp.
- Sensitivity that doesn’t resolve after conservative treatment.
- Abscess signs or evidence of infection at the root tip.
Benefits Of Root Canal
- Saves the natural tooth, preserving jawbone structure and chewing function.
- Eliminates infection and often relieves pain quickly.
- Prevents spread of bacteria to surrounding tissue or neighbouring teeth.
What To Expect After Treatment
- Mild discomfort or sensitivity for a few days — manageable with over‑the‑counter pain relief.
- Follow‑up restoration (crown or filling) to protect and restore tooth strength.
- Good oral hygiene and regular check‑ups ensure long‑term success.
💡 Root canal treatment conserves your natural tooth — often a better outcome than extraction when done early and correctly.
Abscess Drainage And Emergency Care: When Infection Has Spread
If a tooth infection advances to form a dental abscess — a collection of pus — urgent treatment is required. Abscesses can cause significant pain, swelling, and may affect overall health.
Typical Emergency Procedures
- Incision and Drainage: A small cut is made to drain the pus, relieve pressure, and reduce pain and swelling.
- Start of Root Canal or Temporary Release: If possible, the dentist may begin debridement and temporary restoration.
- Prescription of Antibiotics: When there’s spreading infection, fever, swollen lymph nodes or risk of further complications.
- Pain Control: Analgesics, cold compresses, and supportive measures while infection is managed.
When Abscess Treatment Is Necessary
- Severe throbbing pain, swelling of gums, cheek or face.
- Visible gum “boil,” pus discharge, bad taste or smell.
- Fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or general unwell feeling.
- Difficulty chewing or opening mouth; pain radiating to ear, jaw or neck.
Importance Of Prompt Action
- Prevents spread of infection to bone, jaw, or other parts of head/neck.
- Reduces risk of sinus formation, bone loss, or tooth loss.
- Relieves intense pain and protects overall health.
💡 If you notice swelling, pus or fever — treat as a dental emergency. Don’t wait.
Tooth Extraction: When The Tooth Can’t Be Saved

Sometimes, despite best efforts, a tooth may be too damaged or infected to save — for instance due to severe root damage, extensive cracks, or advanced decay. In such cases, extraction becomes the safest option.
When Extraction Is Advised
- The tooth is fractured or cracked below gum level.
- The infection or damage is too extensive for root canal or restoration.
- Recurrent abscesses despite previous treatment.
- Severe decay undermining tooth structure.
What Happens During Extraction
- Under local anaesthetic, the tooth (and sometimes infected tissue) is removed completely.
- The socket is cleaned, often flushed, to lower risk of residual infection.
- Aftercare instructions to promote healing — gentle rinsing, soft diet, avoid smoking or stress on the area.
After Effects & Replacement Options
- Pain and swelling for a few days — managed with pain relief and care.
- Healing over 1–2 weeks; full bone healing may take longer.
- Options for replacement: dental implant, bridge or denture — to restore chewing function and prevent bone loss.
💡 Although extraction removes the problem, consider replacing the tooth to preserve bite, function and avoid shifting of surrounding teeth.
Periodontal Treatment: When Gum Problems Cause Or Worsen Toothache
Toothache doesn’t always come from decay or nerves — sometimes gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) causes pain, sensitivity or discomfort, especially around the tooth root or gum margin.
Treatment Options For Gum-Related Pain
- Professional Cleaning & Scaling: Remove plaque and tartar buildup under the gum line.
- Root Planing: Smooth root surfaces to help gums reattach and reduce pockets.
- Gum Treatment & Maintenance: Periodic cleanings, monitoring, and hygiene support.
- Antibiotics or Local Medication: If infection is deep or chronic.
When Periodontal Therapy Makes Sense
- Gums are swollen, red, tender, or bleed easily.
- Persistent bad breath, gum recession, or tooth sensitivity near gum line.
- Loose teeth or discomfort when chewing.
Benefits Of Periodontal Care
- Reduces inflammation and pain.
- Prevents further gum recession and root exposure.
- Helps preserve teeth and supporting bone.
💡 Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile — treat gum issues early to prevent deeper problems.
Temporary And Supportive Care: Managing Toothache While Waiting For Treatment
If you experience toothache and cannot see a dentist immediately, certain temporary measures may help relieve pain and reduce risk of worsening infection.
- Gentle warm salt‑water rinses several times a day — helps reduce bacterial load and soothe gums.
- Over‑the‑counter painkillers (e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen), taken as per instructions
- Avoid chewing on the affected tooth — eat soft, lukewarm foods
- Keep your head elevated when lying down to reduce pressure and throbbing at night.
- Maintain gentle oral hygiene: brush softly and floss carefully to avoid aggravating inflamed areas.
Important: These are only temporary — they do not treat the root cause. You still need professional dental assessment and treatment.
💡 Use these measures only to manage discomfort until you receive definitive dental care — don’t rely on them as long‑term solutions.
What To Expect During Recovery After Treatment
After Root Canal Or Restoration
- Mild sensitivity or soreness for a few days — manageable with pain relief.
- Avoid chewing hard foods on the treated tooth until it’s fully restored (crown or filling set).
- Maintain good oral hygiene and attend follow-up check-ups to monitor healing.
After Extraction or Abscess Drainage
- Some discomfort and swelling — typically subsides in a few days.
- Soft diet recommended; avoid smoking or hot/spicy foods until healing completes.
- Consider long-term replacement (implant, denture, bridge) to preserve function and prevent shifting teeth.
After Periodontal Treatment
- Gums may feel tender — gentle brushing is recommended.
- Healing over a few days to a couple of weeks; follow guided hygiene and maintenance routines.
💡 Follow all aftercare instructions carefully — healing depends as much on what you do at home as on what the dentist does.
Preventing Future Toothaches And Dental Emergencies
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are effective ways to maintain oral health and reduce the risk of severe toothache or infection:
- Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and soft brush.
- Floss daily or use interdental brushes to remove plaque between teeth.
- Limit intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Avoid chewing on hard objects (ice, pens, hard candy) which can crack teeth.
- Wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports.
- If you grind teeth at night, consider a night guard.
- Attend regular dental check‑ups (every 6–12 months) so decay or cracks are caught early.
- Replace worn or damaged restorations (fillings, crowns) promptly.
- Treat gum inflammation early — don’t wait until it becomes periodontal disease.
💡 Consistent, simple oral care and timely dental check-ups dramatically reduce your risk of serious toothache or tooth loss.
Why Choose Whites Dental In London For Your Toothache And Dental Pain Treatment
If you are in central London and need quick, professional, reliable dental care, Whites Dental offers well‑equipped clinics, expert dentists, and a patient‑focused approach to tooth pain and toothache treatment.
Clinic Locations
- Whites Dental Marble Arch (W2) — 52B Kendal Street, St George’s Fields, London W2 2BP, Phone: 020 3576 2325
- Whites Dental Waterloo (SE1) — 172 Blackfriars Road, London SE1 8ER, Phone: 020 8616 0590
What You Get At Whites Dental
- Emergency appointments for toothache, swelling, abscess or trauma
- Full range of treatments: fillings, root canals, extractions, abscess drainage, periodontal therapy
- Experienced dental professionals trained in general, restorative, endodontic, periodontal and emergency dentistry
- Modern, well‑maintained clinics, easy to reach from central London transport links
- Clear communication and tailored treatment plans — from pain relief now to long‑term restoration
What To Expect At A Visit
- Efficient triage and prompt assessment.
- Accurate diagnosis (clinical exam + X‑rays if needed)
- Treatment plan explained — including options to relieve pain, preserve teeth, or manage infection
- Follow-up care and aftercare guidance to ensure complete healing
💡 If pain, swelling or abscesses appear — book a tooth pain relief treatment at Whites Dental as soon as possible for evaluation. Early treatment often prevents complex procedures or tooth loss.
Final Thoughts
Toothache is more than just discomfort — it’s a signal from your body. While some pain is minor and occasional, other times it warns of deep decay, infection, or imminent abscess. The difference between a simple filling and a root canal (or extraction) often comes down to timing and how early you act.
If you experience persistent, severe, or unusual toothache — especially with swelling, pus, or sensitivity — don’t ignore it. Seek expert dental care promptly. Treatments like restorative fillings, root canal therapy, abscess drainage, or periodontal care can relieve pain, save your tooth, and prevent future problems.
For anyone in central London seeking urgent, professional, and comprehensive dental care, Whites Dental’s Marble Arch (W2) and Waterloo (SE1) clinics are ready to help. With experienced dentists, modern facilities and a range of treatments, they are well placed to restore your oral health and relieve tooth pain fast.
💡 Take action at the first sign — your teeth and peace of mind will thank you.