What to Eat When You Have a Toothache

A toothache can turn even the simplest meal into a frustrating experience. When chewing hurts, temperature sensitivities flare, or pressure feels unbearable, most people struggle to know what foods are safe and what might make the pain worse. Choosing the right foods helps reduce discomfort, prevents further irritation, and supports healing especially when the pain comes from cavities, gum infections, cracked teeth, or recent dental procedures.

Before you make changes to your diet, it helps to understand what’s causing your toothache, which symptoms are normal, and what foods your mouth can tolerate. This guide breaks everything down in an easy, practical way so you know exactly what to eat, what to avoid, and how to prevent more irritation while you wait for a dentist appointment.

What Causes Toothaches?

Toothaches happen for many reasons, and knowing the source of the pain helps you choose the right foods and home-care steps. A toothache typically starts when the inner layers of your tooth especially the dentin or pulp become irritated or inflamed. Eating the wrong foods can worsen this inflammation, so understanding the cause makes all the difference.

Cavities and Tooth Decay

One of the most common causes of toothache is tooth decay. When bacteria weaken the enamel, they expose the sensitive dentin underneath. Foods with sugar, acids, or hard textures can increase the pain. If the decay reaches the pulp, the pain becomes sharper, more constant, and sometimes throbbing. Eating soft, neutral foods helps reduce friction on the damaged tooth until you get treatment.

Gum Disease and Infection

Inflamed or infected gums can cause pain that feels like a toothache. Conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis expose the tooth roots, making them extremely sensitive. Eating certain foods especially crunchy, spicy, or acidic items can aggravate the exposed areas. Choosing soft, cool foods reduces irritation and helps calm inflammation while you get proper care.

Cracked or Chipped Teeth

A cracked tooth may seem small, but even a hairline crack can cause pain when chewing. Pressure causes the crack to flex, irritating the nerve inside the tooth. Hot or cold foods may intensify the pain. Soft, temperature-neutral foods work best until the tooth can be repaired.

Dental Abscess or Infection

A dental abscess is a bacterial infection inside the tooth or gum. It causes intense pain, swelling, warmth, and pressure. Eating solid or warm foods can worsen discomfort. In these cases, liquid or very soft foods are safer. Avoid anything that could irritate the infected area—foods high in sugar, acidity, or spice.

Tooth Sensitivity After Procedures

Some people experience sensitivity after fillings, crowns, whitening, or deep cleanings. This usually fades within days, but certain foods cold, crunchy, or overly sweet intensify the sensation. Soft, mild foods are your best option during this period. If your dentist has given you aftercare instructions especially regarding Foods to Avoid After Tooth Extraction follow them closely.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

If your wisdom teeth are erupting or impacted, they can cause sharp pain, swelling, and discomfort when chewing. Soft, cool foods are recommended until you see a dentist or oral surgeon.

Sinus Pressure

Not all toothaches come from the teeth. Sinus infections cause pressure along the upper teeth. Chewing may hurt, but the teeth themselves are healthy. Soft foods and warm liquids help relieve discomfort until the sinus inflammation decreases.

Common Symptoms of Toothache

Understanding your symptoms helps you decide what to eat and what to avoid. Toothaches vary depending on the cause, severity, and location. Some are mild and annoying, while others are severe and make eating impossible.

Sharp or Sudden Pain

This kind of pain often happens when biting into something cold, sweet, or hard. Sharp pain is common with cavities, cracked teeth, or exposed dentin. You’ll need foods that require minimal chewing and are gentle on the surface of your tooth.

Throbbing, Pulsating Pain

A rhythmic, pounding pain may indicate infection or inflammation inside the tooth. This pain can get worse when you lie down or bite something firm. Temperature-neutral, soft-textured foods will help avoid aggravating the area.

Pressure Sensitivity

If chewing makes the tooth hurt, you may have a cavity, cracked tooth, or abscess. Eating harder foods can worsen the condition. Stick to soft options until you get treatment.

Swelling and Gum Tenderness

Inflamed gums are sensitive to heat, cold, spices, acids, and rough textures. Gentle foods like smoothies and yogurt help avoid scraping irritated gum tissue.

Temperature Sensitivity

Hot and cold foods may cause quick jolts of pain. Choosing room-temperature meals reduces discomfort.

Bad Taste or Odor

A bad taste may indicate infection or a decayed tooth. Avoid sugary foods that fuel bacteria. Neutral, easy-to-swallow foods are best.

Foods That Help Relieve Toothache

When your tooth hurts, the right foods can make a big difference. The goal is to choose items that are soft, gentle, temperature-neutral, and nourishing. These foods reduce irritation, soothe inflamed tissue, and help you stay comfortable until you see a dentist. They also protect the tooth from pressure, sensitivity triggers, and harsh textures.

Soft Foods That Don’t Require Chewing

Soft foods are the safest option because they limit pressure on the painful tooth. They’re easy to eat, easy to digest, and won’t cause friction against irritated gums or exposed dentin.

Examples include:

• Mashed potatoes
• Applesauce
• Yogurt
• Scrambled eggs
• Oatmeal
• Cottage cheese
• Smooth nut butters
• Soft bread soaked in warm milk

These foods are ideal when your pain is moderate to severe or when chewing triggers sensitivity.

Smoothies and Blended Drinks

Smoothies are excellent when chewing is difficult. They deliver vitamins and hydration without irritating the tooth.

Use ingredients like banana, berries, spinach, yogurt, protein powder, or oats.
But avoid:

• Ice
• Citrus
• Frozen fruits that make the drink too cold
• Sugar-heavy juices

Cold temperatures can worsen sensitivity, and citrus can irritate exposed nerves.

Soups and Broths at Mild Temperature

Warm (not hot) soups are soothing and hydrating. They also reduce inflammation by increasing blood flow to the jaw.

Try:

• Chicken broth
• Vegetable soup
• Lentil soup
• Pureed tomato (not too acidic)
• Blended pumpkin soup

Avoid extreme heat it can trigger sharp sensitivity.

Steamed and Soft Vegetables

Vegetables are essential for nutrition and recovery, but raw vegetables may be too hard to chew. Steaming or boiling makes them gentle and easy to swallow.

Good options:

• Carrots
• Sweet potatoes
• Zucchini
• Spinach
• Cauliflower mash

Protein Options That Are Gentle on Teeth

Protein helps with healing and keeps your energy up. Choose soft, mild options like:

• Soft baked fish
• Shredded chicken
• Soft tofu
• Eggs
• Tuna mixed with mayo

Avoid chewing on the painful side of your mouth.

Room-Temperature Dairy

Dairy foods coat the tooth slightly, reducing sensitivity and offering soft textures.

Choose:

• Yogurt
• Soft cheese
• Cottage cheese
• Pudding
• Kefir

Avoid ice cream or cold milk as they may trigger sharp pain.

Whole Grains That Are Easy to Eat

Soft, warm grains are filling, nutritious, and gentle on the mouth.

Try:

• Quinoa
• White rice
• Farina
• Millet porridge
• Cream of wheat

Avoid grains with nuts, seeds, or crunchy add-ins.

Foods to Avoid When You Have a Toothache

Certain foods can significantly worsen tooth pain. They irritate the tooth nerve, increase sensitivity, trigger inflammation, or risk damaging weakened enamel. Avoiding the wrong foods prevents your toothache from escalating.

Very Hot or Very Cold Foods

Extreme temperatures are the most common triggers of sharp, stabbing tooth pain.

Avoid:

• Ice cream
• Popsicles
• Iced drinks
• Piping hot soup
• Hot coffee

Choose room temperature whenever possible.

Sugary Foods That Feed Bacteria

Sugar worsens sensitive tooth pain because bacteria feed on sugars and produce acids that irritate the tooth further.

Avoid:

• Candy
• Cakes
• Sweet cereals
• Chocolate
• Sugary drinks
• Caramel

Hard and Crunchy Foods

Hard foods can crack weakened teeth or irritate exposed nerves.

Do NOT eat:

• Nuts
• Chips
• Raw carrots
• Hard bread
• Popcorn
• Pretzels
• Ice

These foods can break fillings, irritate gums, and increase pain.

Sticky Foods That Pull on the Tooth

Sticky foods can cling to crevices, worsen decay, and strain cracked or loose fillings.

Avoid:

• Chewing gum
• Caramel
• Gummy candies
• Sticky granola bars
• Toffee

Acidic Foods That Erode Enamel

Acidic foods irritate exposed dentin and worsen sensitivity.

Avoid:

• Citrus fruits
• Soda
• Vinegar-based foods
• Pickles
• Tomato sauces

Spicy Foods That Irritate Gums

Spices can burn inflamed gums and worsen pain.

Avoid dishes with:

• Chili
• Hot sauce
• Jalapeños
• Cayenne

Extra Helpful Sections for Toothache Diet Care

Below are additional supportive dietary tips that help soothe pain, reduce swelling, and protect the irritated tooth.

Hydration Matters: What to Drink and Avoid

Hydration helps calm swelling and flush bacteria from the mouth. But certain drinks worsen tooth pain.

Best Drinks for Toothache Relief

• Room-temperature water
• Herbal tea (warm, not hot)
• Warm saltwater (reduces inflammation)
• Coconut water

Drinks to Avoid

• Soda
• Alcohol
• Citrus juices
• Very cold beverages
• Sports drinks

Eating on One Side: How to Do It Safely

If your toothache is limited to one side, chew on the opposite side. This prevents pressure on the painful tooth.

Good habits

• Cut food into small pieces
• Eat slowly
• Avoid chewy textures
• Rinse gently after meals

What to avoid

• Biting large pieces
• Switching sides mid-meal
• Hard foods that can slip to the wrong side

Nutrients That Support Oral Healing

Foods rich in vitamins and minerals speed recovery and reduce inflammation.

Vitamin C

Supports gums and reduces infection risk. Choose soft fruits like ripe bananas instead of citrus.

Calcium

Strengthens enamel; found in yogurt and soft cheese.

Protein

Repairs tissues; choose soft fish, eggs, tofu.

Omega-3s

Reduce inflammation; salmon and chia pudding work well (avoid whole seeds).

Eating After Dental Procedures

If your toothache relates to a recent treatment, food choices must be even more careful.

After Fillings

Avoid cold foods, very sweet foods, and hard textures.

After Deep Cleaning

Avoid spicy foods and citrus until your gums recover.

After a Tooth Extraction

Follow your dentist’s list of Foods to Avoid After Tooth Extraction to prevent irritation, bleeding, or dry socket.

More Helpful Dietary Strategies for Managing Toothache

Choosing the right foods is only part of the solution. How you prepare, eat, and time your meals also affects toothache discomfort. The goal is to nourish your body without aggravating the irritated tooth or gum.

How to Prepare Foods to Reduce Tooth Pain

Preparing foods gently ensures they remain soft, easy to chew, and tooth-friendly.

Cook Foods Until They’re Extremely Soft

Boiling, steaming, and slow-cooking help break down fibers in vegetables, grains, and proteins. This reduces the pressure required to chew and minimizes discomfort when eating.

Mash, Blend, or Puree When Needed

If chewing is painful, blend meals like soups, vegetables, oats, or fruits. Smooth textures prevent friction on the painful tooth.

Keep Foods at Room Temperature

Avoid both extremes—too hot or too cold. Room-temperature foods keep nerves calm and limit sudden pain spikes.

Eating Techniques That Prevent Pain

Even the right foods can cause discomfort if you eat them the wrong way.

Chew Slowly and Gently

Rushing increases accidental pressure on sore teeth.

Use Smaller Bites

Smaller bites reduce chewing force and help you target the stronger side of your mouth.

Avoid Sucking Motions

Sucking through straws, sucking on candy, or inhaling cold air can trigger sensitive tooth pain by exposing the tooth to pressure changes.

Rinse After Eating

Use warm water or saltwater to remove food particles that might worsen irritation.

Foods That Provide Natural Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Some foods not only avoid irritation—they actively help soothe inflammation and discomfort.

Bananas

Soft, nutrient-rich, and non-acidic. Bananas replenish potassium and soothe sore gums.

Ginger

Ginger tea (warm, not hot) can reduce swelling and calm irritated tissues.

Turmeric

Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. Adding a small amount to warm milk or soup reduces discomfort.

Aloe Vera Juice (Non-Acidic)

Helps soothe gum irritation and boosts healing.

Soft Berries

Ripe strawberries and blueberries (not cold) offer antioxidants without hurting sensitive teeth.

Foods That Support Healing if the Toothache Is Infection-Related

If an infection is suspected, the immune system needs extra support.

Lean Soft Proteins

Soft fish, eggs, and cooked lentils help repair tissue.

Vitamin C Sources That Aren’t Acidic

Choose papaya or steamed broccoli instead of citrus fruits.

Zinc-Rich Foods

Soft beans, mashed chickpeas, and poultry help fight infection.

What to Eat When Chewing Is Impossible

Severe toothaches sometimes make chewing unbearable. In that case, rely on liquid nutrition temporarily.

Smooth Soups

Blended pumpkin, tomato (low-acid), lentil, or potato soups offer nourishment without chewing.

Protein Shakes

Use lukewarm milk or plant-based milk. Avoid ice or very cold liquids.

Yogurt Drinks

Smooth, gentle probiotic drinks help maintain gut and oral health.

Meal Replacement Drinks

These ensure you get calories and nutrients even when eating is difficult.

Natural Home Remedies to Support Toothache Relief

Foods help, but home remedies may also reduce discomfort until you get professional care.

Warm Saltwater Rinse

Saltwater reduces bacteria, swelling, and irritation. Rinse gently to avoid pressure.

Clove Oil Application

Clove contains eugenol, a natural pain reliever. Apply with caution using a cotton swab.

Cold Compress on the Outside of Your Cheek

Use for swelling not directly inside the mouth. Helps numb the area and reduce inflammation.

Peppermint Tea Bag Compress

Warm peppermint tea bags soothe gums and reduce inflammation.

Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse (Diluted Only)

Helps fight bacteria but must be used properly and never swallowed.

When You Should Avoid Eating and See a Dentist Immediately

Some symptoms indicate a more serious issue that food changes won’t solve.

Severe Swelling

This may signal a dental abscess that needs urgent care.

Fever or Fatigue

Signs of spreading infection do not delay treatment.

Pulsating, Severe, Constant Pain

This often means the nerve is infected and needs immediate evaluation.

Difficulty Opening Your Mouth or Swallowing

Can indicate advanced infection and requires emergency care.

If your pain worsens, spreads, or wakes you at night, contact a dentist as soon as possible.

Putting It All Together: A Sample Daily Toothache Meal Plan

This sample plan uses gentle, nutritious foods that minimize irritation.

Morning

• Soft scrambled eggs
• Warm oatmeal with mashed bananas
• Room-temperature herbal tea

Lunch

• Mashed potatoes
• Soft baked fish
• Steamed spinach

Snack

• Applesauce
• Smooth yogurt
• Soft cheese

Dinner

• Warm blended vegetable soup
• Steamed sweet potatoes
• Soft rice

Before Bed

• Warm saltwater rinse
• Pain reliever if needed
• Avoid eating after brushing

Conclusion

Eating with a toothache doesn’t have to be stressful. When you understand what’s causing your pain and choose foods that are soft, mild, and gentle on irritated teeth, you can minimize discomfort and prevent further inflammation. Sticking to warm, room-temperature meals helps calm nerve sensitivity, while avoiding crunchy, acidic, sticky, and sugary foods protects your tooth from irritation and damage.

Whether your pain is due to cavities, infection, gum inflammation, cracked teeth, or sensitivity after a procedure, careful food choices make a significant difference in your daily comfort. These dietary adjustments are temporary and designed to help you stay nourished while you wait for professional treatment. The right foods can soothe irritated tissue, reduce inflammation, and prevent the pain from worsening.

If your toothache persists, becomes severe, or is accompanied by swelling or fever, don’t delay seeing a dentist. Certain symptoms indicate deeper infection or nerve involvement that requires urgent care. Adjust your diet wisely, monitor your symptoms, and take action early to protect your oral health and prevent complications. If you’re unsure where to turn for help, reaching out to a Burbank Local Dental Office can ensure you get proper evaluation and treatment without delay.

FAQs

What should I eat during a toothache?

Stick to soft, gentle foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, applesauce, oatmeal, soup, scrambled eggs, and smoothies. Avoid foods that are hard, crunchy, acidic, or too hot/cold.

How do you make a toothache stop hurting fast?

Warm saltwater rinses, over-the-counter pain relievers, clove oil, and cold compresses help temporarily. If the pain is severe or persistent, see a dentist immediately.

What to eat with an infected tooth?

Choose soft foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals—such as soft fish, mashed veggies, blended soups, and yogurt. Avoid sugary foods that fuel bacteria.

What worsens a tooth infection?

Sugar, acidic foods, alcohol, caffeine, cold drinks, spicy foods, and poor oral hygiene can worsen infections. Seek dental treatment promptly to avoid complications.

What to avoid with toothache?

Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, sugary, acidic, very cold, and very hot foods. These can trigger sensitivity, increase inflammation, or damage weakened teeth.