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What causes a dull toothache while chewing or drinking?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

The right side of my teeth hurts, especially when I chew or drink something cold. I have been using Longrich toothpaste (Haleon) for a while, and it seems to relieve the pain almost to the point of it being nonexistent, but there is always a dull ache in the background.

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Sally Attalah

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sally Attalah is an experienced Dental Surgeon with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery earned in 2007, followed by her internship in 2008. She has been an affiliate member of the American Dental Association since 2015, reflecting her commitment to maintaining global standards in dental care. Dr. Sally is dedicated to providing high-quality oral healthcare with a patient-focused approach.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. Pain with a cold is always related to two problems. The first is tooth sensitivity, possibly due to aggressive tooth brushing, gum recession, or a tooth crack. The second is tooth decay, which requires professional treatment. In the case of tooth sensitivity and gum recession, Longrich toothpaste can help relieve pain, which may explain why you do not feel as much discomfort now. Toothpaste like Sensodyne, which targets sensitive teeth, can also work well in this situation. They should be used twice daily and become your regular toothpaste. Their action forms a transparent layer over the exposed parts of sensitive teeth, isolating them from cold and hot sensations and preventing pain.

However, if tooth decay is the cause, the only treatment is to visit your dentist for the removal of decay and a filling. For dull pain, check for any signs of gum inflammation, such as dark red color, swelling, or easily bleeding gums in that area. If these symptoms are present, visiting your dentist is necessary for a professional cleaning to remove plaque or tartar buildup, which may be causing the inflammation. In my opinion, you should use toothpaste for at least two weeks, but only after ensuring there are no signs of gum inflammation. If the dull pain persists, visiting your dentist will be a must.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 23, 2025
Reviewed At July 21, 2026

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sally Attalah is an experienced Dental Surgeon with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery earned in 2007, followed by her internship in 2008. She has been an affiliate member of the American Dental Association since 2015, reflecting her commitment to maintaining global standards in dental care. Dr. Sally is dedicated to providing high-quality oral healthcare with a patient-focused approach.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

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Companion

Dull Toothache Causes Companion

How it works

A dull toothache can stem from various issues, from simple sensitivity to more serious problems like decay or gum inflammation. Understanding the potential causes can help you discuss your symptoms effectively with a dentist.

1

Toothache
Causes

2

Tooth
Sensitivity

3

Tooth
Decay

4

Gum
Inflammation

5

Specialized
Toothpaste

6

When
Consult

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sally Attalah is an experienced Dental Surgeon with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery earned in 2007, followed by her internship in 2008. She has been an affiliate member of the American Dental Association since 2015, reflecting her commitment to maintaining global standards in dental care. Dr. Sally is dedicated to providing high-quality oral healthcare with a patient-focused approach.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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