A dentist has listed the six warning signs that toothache may require urgent treatment rather than simply waiting for the pain to pass. Toothache can have several causes, including decay, a damaged filling, a cracked tooth or an infection. While some discomfort may initially appear manageable, certain accompanying symptoms could indicate that the underlying problem is becoming more serious.

Dr Deepa Chopra, dentist at Whites Dental, said: Toothache is your bodys way of telling you that something isnt right. Painkillers might temporarily reduce the discomfort, but they dont treat whatever is causing it.

The important thing is to pay attention to how long the pain has lasted and whether you have developed any other symptoms. Swelling, fever or difficulty swallowing should never be ignored.

Here are six warning signs that your toothache may need urgent dental attention.

1. The pain has lasted longer than two days

Toothache that persists for more than two days should be assessed by a dentist, even if the pain comes and goes.

Dr Chopra said: Pain that keeps returning or lasts for several days is unlikely to resolve properly without treatment. The sooner the cause is identified, the greater the chance of preventing the problem from becoming more complicated.

2. Painkillers are not controlling the pain

Severe pain that does not ease with suitable over-the-counter pain relief may be considered an urgent dental problem.

Pain that remains intense despite taking appropriate pain relief could indicate inflammation or an infection affecting the inside of the tooth, Dr Chopra explained.

People should always follow the instructions on the packet and speak to a pharmacist if they are unsure what they can safely take.

3. Your cheek or jaw has started swelling

Swelling around the affected tooth, cheek or jaw may be a sign of a dental abscess or another infection.

Dr Chopra said: Even relatively small amounts of swelling should be taken seriously, particularly if they are getting worse. Dental infections do not usually disappear on their own and can spread into the surrounding tissue.

4. You have a fever or feel generally unwell

Toothache accompanied by a high temperature or feeling unwell could suggest that the body is responding to an infection.

A fever alongside dental pain is a sign that you should seek professional advice promptly, Dr Chopra said. It is especially important not to delay if the symptoms are worsening or the swelling is spreading.

5. There is a bad taste in your mouth or your gums are red

An unpleasant taste, red gums, pain when biting or discharge around the tooth may also point towards an infection.

Dr Chopra said: A persistent bad taste can sometimes occur when an abscess is draining. The pain may temporarily feel better if this happens, but that does not mean the infection has gone away.

6. The swelling is affecting your breathing or swallowing

Severe swelling around the mouth, neck or eye requires immediate medical attention, particularly if it is making it difficult to breathe, swallow or speak.

This goes beyond a routine toothache, Dr Chopra warned. Anyone experiencing difficulty breathing or swallowing, significant swelling around the mouth or neck, or swelling spreading towards the eye should seek emergency medical help immediately.

People who need urgent dental care should contact their dentist. If they cannot obtain an emergency appointment or do not have a regular dentist, they can contact NHS 111. The NHS advises calling 999 or attending A&E for severe swelling affecting breathing, swallowing or speaking, heavy bleeding that will not stop, or a serious facial or jaw injury.