Tooth pain, aches and sensitivity: common causes and fixes

Published August 2025 | 5 min read
Expert contributor: Dr Victoria Capp, Dental Centre Network Clinical Manager, HCF
Words by Jo Hartley

Whether it’s a mild ache or a bit of sensitivity, understanding the cause of tooth pain is the first step to feeling better.

When it comes to our teeth, pain and sensitivity are very common. According to the Australian Dental Association's 2024 Consumer Survey, 36% of Aussies experienced debilitating oral issues in the past 12 months, including recent tooth or gum pain, mouth or face swelling, or a mouth infection. People aged over 65 were particularly affected by these conditions, with nearly half (47%) reporting issues.

Despite this, nearly one-third of people (31%) go for a regular check-up, and about 61% delay necessary treatment.

“Recognising tooth pain and being ahead of the game can prevent further damage and relieve pain fast,” says Dr Victoria Capp, Dental Centre Network Clinical Manager at HCF.

What are the symptoms of tooth pain and sensitivity?

Tooth pain shows up in different ways and is sometimes linked to tooth sensitivity. While the causes can vary, the symptoms are often clues as to whether it’s something minor or a sign of a bigger issue.

Symptoms can include:

• sharp or throbbing pain in or around a tooth
• sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods and drinks
• pain when biting, chewing or applying pressure
• swelling in the gums, cheeks or around the affected area
• red or bleeding gums
• a bad taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath
• pain that radiates to the jaw, ear or neck
• headaches.

“Tooth pain and sensitivity can interfere with everything from eating and speaking to sleeping and focusing during the day,” says Dr Capp. “Even mild discomfort can take a toll on your mood and overall wellbeing, especially if it lingers or keeps coming back.”
 

What causes tooth pain?

Tooth pain can stem from a range of underlying issues, some more obvious than others. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to when and how the pain shows up.

Causes of tooth pain can include:

• tooth decay (cavities)
• gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
• cracked, chipped or broken teeth
• dental abscess or infection
• teeth grinding or clenching
• recent dental work (fillings, crowns, whitening)
• sinus infections (can cause referred tooth pain)
• impacted wisdom teeth
• loose or damaged fillings.

How to prevent tooth pain

While not all tooth pain and sensitivity can be avoided, many cases are preventable with the right habits and care. A few simple steps can help you keep your teeth strong, healthy and pain-free.

• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleans.
• Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush for brushing teeth to avoid enamel wear.
• Use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, if needed.
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
• Avoid too much acidic or sugary foods and drinks.
• Limit very hot or cold foods if you’re prone to sensitivity.
• Wear an occlusal splint (sometimes called a night guard) if you grind your teeth at night.
• Don’t ignore early signs of discomfort or gum changes, including bleeding.

How to manage tooth pain and discomfort

If you’re dealing with tooth pain or tooth sensitivity, visit your dentist for treatment as soon as possible to prevent pain from getting worse. Through our No-Gap Dental program, if you go to an HCF Dental Centre or dental provider in our No-Gap network you can get 100% back on a range of common diagnostic and preventive services, depending on your level of cover and annual limits^*.

After the visit and any necessary treatment, your dentist may recommend ways to manage any further pain. These might include:

• rinsing with warm salt water to soothe inflamed gums
• avoiding extremely hot, cold or sugary foods that trigger sensitivity
• using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth
• sticking to a soft diet (foods that are easy to chew and swallow) to avoid aggravating the pain
• applying a cold compress to the cheek to relieve swelling
• keeping up good oral health (brushing, flossing) but being gentle around sore spots.

“If you have any kind of tooth pain, it’s time to book in with your dentist,” says Dr Capp. “Even if everything feels fine, regular check-ups every six to 12 months can help catch problems early.”

Time for a check-up?

We understand many people avoid the dentist because they’re worried about out-of-pocket costs. Through our No-Gap Dental program, members who go to an HCF Dental Centre or More for Teeth provider can get 100% back on a range of common diagnostic and preventive services, depending on their level of cover and annual limits^*. In the financial year 2024, our members potentially saved $95.5 million by using our More for Teeth program – that’s an average of $192 in out-of-pocket costs that could be saved at a typical dental check-up.