Toothache
Toothache that lasts more than a day or two, keeps you awake or comes with swelling needs a dentist soon, because it often means infection or a deep cavity.
Written by the AppointPanda editorial team · Last reviewed · How we write our guides
Urgency
See a dentist within a few days
What to do now
Practical steps
- 01
Take an over-the-counter painkiller as directed on the pack, and avoid placing aspirin on the gum.
- 02
Rinse with warm salt water and avoid very hot, cold or sugary food on that side.
- 03
Book a dentist within a day or two, or the same day if the pain is severe or there is swelling.
- 04
If swelling spreads to your eye or neck, or you have trouble breathing or swallowing, call 998.
When you book
What to tell the clinic
Which tooth hurts, how long it has hurt, whether hot, cold or biting makes it worse, and whether there is any swelling.
Likely treatments
What the dentist may suggest
Emergency DentistAn emergency dentist treats urgent problems such as severe toothache, swelling, a knocked-out tooth or a broken tooth, usually the same day. Typically AED 200–AED 800 for the emergency consultation and X-ray.
Root Canal TreatmentRoot canal treatment removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, cleans and seals the canals, and lets you keep the tooth instead of extracting it. Typically AED 1,000–AED 4,500 per tooth.Where in Dubai?
Find a dentist by area
FAQ
Common questions
When is toothache an emergency?
Go the same day if there is facial swelling, a fever, or pain you cannot control with painkillers. If swelling spreads to your eye or neck or affects breathing, call 998.
Will I need a root canal?
Not always. A dentist will check with an X-ray. Some toothaches are fixed with a filling; others need a root canal or, occasionally, an extraction.
Other reasons
Something else?
Request a dentist in Dubai
Choose a clinic, tell it why you are visiting, and it will call to confirm a time.
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