Many people deal with tooth pain by brushing and flossing to remove any irritating food fragments and plaque build-up around their teeth. This is usually followed by the use of an ice pack, a home remedy involving saltwater to gurgle, or an over-the-counter pain medication for toothache relief. If the swelling and pain do not seem to subside, you should seek an emergency dentist to address the cause of your tooth pain. In some cases, jaw pain accompanied by headaches, soreness, or stiffness may indicate a TMJ disorder requiring treatment. Swelling may indicate infection, and you may need an antibiotic to prevent the infection from spreading.