What is Toothache?
Toothache is pain or discomfort in or around a tooth. It can be sharp, throbbing, constant or intermittent and it often worsens when eating, drinking, or lying down. While toothache is common, it’s not something to ignore as it may be a sign of infection or damage that needs urgent care.

Common Causes of Toothache
Toothache can have many underlying causes, including:
• Tooth decay (dental caries)
• Dental infection or abscess
• Broken tooth from dental trauma
• Cracked tooth from teeth grinding
• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Impacted wisdom tooth
• Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
• Sinus infections (pain referred to upper teeth)

Symptoms to Watch Out For
It’s important to monitor your symptoms. Contact a dentist urgently if you notice persistent or worsening pain with:
• Facial swelling
• Difficulty opening your mouth
• Bad taste or smell in the mouth
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Raised temperature
• Feeling tired or generally unwell
These may indicate a dental infection, which requires prompt antibiotic treatment.

Do I Need Antibiotics for Toothache?
Not all toothaches require antibiotics. In many cases, the pain is caused by inflammation, not infection and therefore antibiotics won’t help. However, a dentist may prescribe antibiotics if there are signs of spreading infection, such as:
• Facial swelling
• Difficulty opening your mouth
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Raised temperature
At Online Dentist UK, our experienced dentists will carefully assess your symptoms and prescribe antibiotics if it is safe and appropriate for you.

How We Can Help
If you’re experiencing toothache, we’re here to help. While we don’t replace in-person dental treatment, we provide trusted support when pain strikes especially out of hours.

✔ 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
We’re always here even when your local dental practice is closed.

✔ Experienced Dentists
Every consultation is reviewed by one of our GDC registered dentists.

✔ Same Day Prescriptions
Collect your medication from your local pharmacy, today

✔ Safe and Regulated
We follow strict guidelines to ensure ethical and clinically appropriate care.

✔ Transparent Pricing
Just £19.95 - only pay if a prescription is suitable for you.

What to Do Next
To find out if you need antibiotics for your toothache, start our online consultation now. It only takes a few minutes and it’s simple, secure and free.