Toothache
Hong Kong dentist's WhatsApp answers to toothache questions
Toothache – Common Causes
Toothache is a painful sensation caused by a problem with the tooth or surrounding tissues, which can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Toothache is a common health issue that many people experience, regardless of age. Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for toothache is important to ensure timely and appropriate medical care.
- Tooth decay – When the enamel on the surface of teeth is eroded by bacteria, forming cavities, it can cause pain and sensitivity.
- Gingivitis Gingivitis caused by plaque buildup can lead to swollen, bleeding, and painful gums.
- Periodontal disease – Long-term wear of removable dentures but experiencing discomfort, loosening, or difficulty eating.
- Tooth wear Tooth grinding or overuse can cause wear and tear on the tooth surface, leading to sensitivity and pain.
- Pulpitis – When the dental pulp inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain and usually requires root canal treatment.
- wisdom teeth eruption– When wisdom teeth erupt, they may cause pain due to insufficient space or gum inflammation.
Symptoms of tooth decay and toothache
Common symptoms of tooth decay and toothache in Hong Kong in 2025
Toothache caused by cavities is a very common oral problem, and its causes are mainly related to bacteria, dietary habits, and oral hygiene.
Comparison of treatment methods for tooth decay
This article compares five common dental treatments for tooth decay, explaining the applicability, advantages, and disadvantages of each option.
| Treatment | Applicable situations | Advantages/Disadvantages | Cost range |
| filling | Mild to moderate tooth decay, not yet reaching the pulp. | Preserves the original tooth, quick completion, and lower cost. Recurrence is possible if cavities are not completely removed. | HKD$900+ |
| Duyagen | Severe tooth decay, pulpitis, pulp necrosis | The treatment involves removing the infection, preserving the natural teeth, and restoring function. However, it is time-consuming, leaves the teeth fragile, and may require braces. | HKD$9,000 – 23,000 |
| extract a tooth | Tooth structure cannot be repaired, infection spreads | Complete removal of the diseased tooth and quick pain relief may affect occlusion and aesthetics. | HKD$900 – 2,500 |
Common toothache problems
Here are some common questions and answers about tooth decay to help you better understand this common but not negligent oral health problem.
Yes, even mild toothache should be taken seriously, and seeking medical attention early can help prevent the toothache from worsening.
Regular dental checkups at a dental clinic specializing in toothaches are an important step in maintaining oral health. We recommend at least twice a year to ensure any toothache issues are detected early and any potential problems are addressed promptly.
Some simple self-relief methods for toothache are recommended, including applying ice packs, rinsing with salt water, and choosing appropriate soft foods, which can help relieve the discomfort of toothache.
The most effective way to prevent toothache is to establish good oral hygiene habits. Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing helps remove plaque and food debris. Regular dental cleanings and checkups every six months can detect cavities and periodontal disease early. Dietary recommendations include reducing sugar intake and eating more fruits and vegetables to promote saliva production. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of periodontal disease and oral cancer. Keeping your mouth moist and drinking plenty of water reduces bacterial growth, while sufficient sleep and stress management help boost immunity and prevent gingivitis. Finally, avoid biting hard objects such as ice cubes or nuts to prevent tooth breakage or damage.
When lying down, blood concentrates in the head, increasing pressure on inflamed areas. Combined with reduced saliva production at night, bacteria can easily multiply, amplifying the pain.
Schedule a dental appointment
You can book your dental appointment and check-up at Qi Ren Dental Centre online in advance. For any dental questions, you can also WhatsApp us first, and a dentist will answer them personally.