Tooth pain / dental abscess

Overview

Tooth pain usually points to dental disease — cavity, cracked tooth, or abscess — needing a dentist. Telehealth can bridge with antibiotics and pain control until dental care.

Symptoms to watch for

• Throbbing tooth pain
• Sensitivity to hot/cold
• Facial swelling
• Fever with severe pain (abscess)
• Bad taste in mouth

Treatment

Antibiotics (amoxicillin or clindamycin if penicillin-allergic) as a bridge to dental care. Ibuprofen alternating with acetaminophen for pain. See a dentist urgently for definitive care.