A toothache is a pain or discomfort in or around a tooth. 

It can range from mild to severe and may be constant or intermittent. Toothaches are often a result of dental problems and can be caused by various factors:

1. **Rinse with Warm Salt Water:** Mix half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and use it as a mouthwash. This can help reduce inflammation and clean the area around the tooth.

2. **Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers:** Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can temporarily alleviate the pain. Follow the instructions on the label and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

3. **Avoid Cold or Hot Foods:** Extreme temperatures can worsen tooth sensitivity. Stick to lukewarm or room temperature foods and beverages.

4. **Clove Oil:** Clove oil has natural numbing properties. Apply a small amount of clove oil on a cotton ball and place it near the affected area for temporary relief. Be careful not to apply it directly to the gums or tongue, as it can cause irritation.

5. **Avoid Sugary Foods and Drinks:** Sugary substances can worsen tooth pain, especially if you have a cavity. Avoid sugary foods and drinks until you can see a dentist.

6. **Peppermint Tea:** Peppermint tea has mild numbing properties. Make a cup of peppermint tea, let it cool down, and swish it around in your mouth for a minute or two before spitting it out.

7. **Use a Cold Compress:** Applying a cold compress wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes can help numb the area and reduce inflammation.

Certainly, here are some additional details regarding toothaches, including potential causes and when to seek professional dental care:

Causes of Toothaches:

1. **Tooth Decay:** Cavities or dental caries can expose the inner part of the tooth (pulp) to bacteria, leading to pain.
2. **Gum Infection:** Gum disease or gingivitis can cause tooth pain, especially if it leads to an abscess (a pus-filled pocket) around the tooth root.
3. **Tooth Sensitivity:** Teeth can become sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods due to exposed dentin (inner layer of the tooth) or receding gums.
4. **Cracked or Fractured Tooth:** A cracked tooth can cause sharp pain, especially when biting or chewing.
5. **Impacted Wisdom Teeth:** Wisdom teeth that do not have enough space to emerge properly can cause pain and discomfort.
6. **Sinus Infection:** Sometimes, a sinus infection can cause toothache-like symptoms, especially in the upper back teeth.

When to Seek Professional Help:

1. **Persistent Pain:** If the toothache lasts for more than 1-2 days, it's important to see a dentist.
2. **Pain with Swelling:** Swelling around the tooth or in the jaw area indicates a possible infection that requires immediate dental attention.
3. **Fever and Earache:** These symptoms, combined with a toothache, can indicate a severe infection that needs urgent care.
4. **Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing:** If the pain is severe and affects your ability to swallow or breathe, seek emergency medical care.

Dental Treatment Options:

1. **Fillings:** For cavities, the decayed portion of the tooth is removed and replaced with a dental filling.
2. **Root Canal Therapy:** If the tooth's pulp is infected, a root canal procedure may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.
3. **Tooth Extraction:** In cases of severe decay or infection, the tooth might need to be extracted.
4. **Dental Cleaning and Scaling:** If gum disease is the cause, professional dental cleaning and scaling can help treat the condition.
5. **Orthodontic Treatment:** If misaligned teeth are causing discomfort, orthodontic treatments can help.

Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can prevent many dental issues. If you're experiencing a toothache, it's best to consult a dentist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment tailored to your specific condition.