Foods That Can Worsen a Toothache: What to Avoid
When you have a toothache, every bite can feel like a challenge. At Emergency & Walk-In Dentist Cardiff, we know that certain foods can make your dental pain much worse. This guide will help you identify which foods to avoid and what safer alternatives to choose until you can see our emergency dentists.
The Worst Foods for Toothache Pain
If you’re experiencing toothache pain, these are the foods you should absolutely avoid:
1. Sugary Foods and Drinks
Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause tooth decay and can intensify pain in an already sensitive tooth. Avoid:
- Sodas and sweetened beverages
- Candy (especially sticky varieties)
- Pastries and cakes
2. Acidic Foods
Acids can irritate exposed nerves and damage tooth enamel. Steer clear of:
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruit)
- Tomatoes and tomato sauce
- Vinegar-based dressings
3. Extremely Hot or Cold Foods
Temperature extremes can trigger sharp pain in sensitive teeth. Avoid:
- Ice cream
- Hot coffee or tea
- Very hot soups
4. Hard and Crunchy Foods
These can put pressure on damaged teeth and potentially cause more harm. Skip:
- Nuts and seeds
- Hard candies
- Crunchy toast or crackers
- Popcorn (especially unpopped kernels)
5. Sticky or Chewy Foods
These can get stuck in cavities or pull at loose fillings. Avoid:
- Caramel and toffee
- Chewy candies
- Dried fruits
- Gum
What to Eat Instead
While waiting for your emergency dental appointment, these tooth-friendly foods are safer choices:
- Room temperature soups (not too hot)
- Soft cooked vegetables
- Yogurt (without added sugar)
- Scrambled eggs
- Mashed potatoes (cooled slightly)
- Oatmeal
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
If your toothache persists more than 1-2 days or you experience any of these symptoms, visit our emergency dental clinic immediately:
- Severe pain that prevents sleep
- Swelling in your face or gums
- Signs of infection (fever, bad taste)
- Pain from a broken or chipped tooth
- A lost filling or crown
Preventing Future Toothaches
While some toothaches are unavoidable, you can reduce your risk by:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing
- Getting routine dental cleanings
- Addressing small cavities before they become painful
- Wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
- Considering root canal treatment for severely decayed teeth
Suffering From a Painful Toothache?
Don’t wait in pain – our emergency dentists in Cardiff are available 24/7 to provide fast relief.
Book Your Emergency Appointment Now
