Toothache

Toothache can range from mild discomfort to severe pain — and while some cases may settle on their own, others need professional care.

If you're experiencing any ongoing or severe tooth pain, it's best to book an appointment with your Guildford Dental Centre as soon as possible.

Common Causes of Toothache

Toothache can be caused by:

  • Tooth decay
  • An abscess or infection
  • A cracked or broken tooth
  • Loose or damaged fillings
  • Erupting wisdom teeth
  • Gum problems or gum disease
  • Teeth grinding or jaw clenching
  • Food or debris trapped under the gums

When to Contact the Dentist

You should see us if:

  • Your toothache lasts more than 1–2 days
  • The pain is severe or getting worse
  • You have swelling, a fever, or trouble opening your mouth

At Guildford Dental Centre, we’ll assess your tooth, relieve your discomfort, and guide you through any further treatment needed.

Home Care for Toothache Relief

While you wait to see the dentist, these tips may help ease discomfort:

  • Rinse with warm saltwater
  • Use over-the-counter pain relief (paracetamol or pain-relief gels)
  • Avoid very hot, cold, sugary or acidic foods
  • Try clove oil for temporary relief
  • Use a cold compress on your cheek (not directly on the tooth)
  • Keep your head elevated when resting

These are short-term solutions — if the pain persists, don’t wait.

Treatment Options

After examining your tooth (and possibly taking an X-ray), your dentist may recommend:

  • A filling or crown
  • Antibiotics for infection
  • Root canal treatment
  • Tooth extraction (if necessary)
  • A deep clean for gum-related issues

Preventing Toothaches

To help avoid toothache in the future:

✅Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

✅Floss once a day

✅Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash

✅Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks

✅Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleaning

Need Help with Tooth Pain?

We’re here to help. If you’re in pain or have concerns about your teeth, don’t wait for your next check-up.
Call Guildford Dental Centre in Guildford on 01483 535220 to book an appointment today.

Meet the team

Dr Jonathan Tan

Dentist

GDC NO. 75185

Dr Derek Whittle

Dentist

GDC NO. 78743

Dr Kavitha Sivasubramaniam

Dentist

GDC NO. 85899

Dr Aradhana Bhimalingham

Dentist

GDC NO. 109760

Dr Chhavi Sharma

Dentist - with special interest in restorative and cosmetic dentistry

GDC NO. 136825

Dr Jananie Raveendran

Dentist

GDC NO. 82926

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Patient Reviews

People are talking about us

The biggest compliment we receive is when our patients refer their friends and family to Guildford Dental Centre. In fact, we have built much of our practice on these valued, trusted recommendations over the years. Read our reviews to hear why our patients are recommending us…

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Patient reviews

662 Reviews

5.0

10th May 2026

Have been a highly satisfied patient at the Clinic for many years and continue to be so.

PH

Pamela Hills

Jan was very sympathetic with my concerns. Very thorough checkup and X-rays. I am sure she will continue her care when I come back for the treatment. Highly recommend

29th April 2026

Very easy the whole 1.5hours of treatment

25th April 2026

Both the dentist and hygienist were highly invested in my dental welfare to ensure that I maintain my dental integrity. I couldn’t be more satisfied with their commitment, skill and determination to ensure compliance with their high standards.

24th April 2026

Supportive and sympathetic to me as a nervous patient.

24th April 2026

I came as an emergency appointment. I called at 8:30 and was seen at 10. I received excellent advice and left feeling much less anxious about my tooth.

23rd April 2026

The Hygienist whose name I think is Rachel was, as always, really excellent.I have great faith in Derek the Dentist and feel confident in his treatmentThank you, I have never liked coming to the dentist because of previous unpleasant experiences but feel I have found the right Dental practice for me now.

GC

Geoff Cole

They're excellent. Look after my wife and my teeth very well. Have done for years. Nice people.

17th April 2026

Derek Whittle’s customary professional attention to detail was most appreciated as ever.

12th April 2026

Friendly and efficient team.

9th April 2026

pleasant, helpful staff

3rd April 2026

Everyone listened to my concerns and were very kind and friendly and looked after me perfectly. In fact I quite enjoyed my treatment!

3rd April 2026

Everything from the booking in to booking the next appointment

3rd April 2026

The Dental Practice is a very caring practice.

2nd April 2026

Dr Whittle patiently answered all my questions

1st April 2026

A well run, professional practice

27th March 2026

Very professional, knowledgeable and friendly dentist

26th March 2026

i had a check up booked but managed to break a tooth prior to attended which was dealt with as well.

24th March 2026

I have not had a tooth extracted since childhood, so was frankly terrified at the prospect, even allowing for having arranged sedation. The sedation specialist was brilliant, calming and supportive, and the dentist was also very calm. The sedation worked very well, and after the treatment I was given very clear info about how to deal with any bleeding, pain, brushing near the affected area etc. As a result, I felt all had gone very well and felt confident about not having a review meeting for over a week (because the dentist was on planned leave). Having changed dentist following Jonathan's reduced days, I am now have complete confidence in Aradhana and Kavi, and it is such a relief to me. The support nurses also are very good. Many, many thanks to my new dentists!

24th March 2026

Caring and explaining the plan put me at ease. Very professional.

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