Pain in the upper right tooth: which part of the body is "on fire" (experiencing excessive internal heat)?

Upper right toothache may be caused by excessive internal heat in the stomach, large intestine, kidneys, or other areas.

1. Stomach

The toothache might result from stomach fire. Patients may experience redness, swelling, and pain in the upper teeth, along with symptoms such as thirst and bad breath, all caused by excess stomach heat. It is recommended to use medications such as Niuhuang Qingwei Pills, Dahuang Qingwei Pills, or Qingwei Huanglian Tablets under a doctor's guidance.

2. Large Intestine

Toothache could also stem from excessive heat in the large intestine. If the upper teeth are red, swollen, and painful, accompanied by thirst and constipation, this is likely due to large intestine fire. It is recommended to use medications such as Maziren Pills, Sanhuang Tablets, or Zanglian Pills under medical supervision.

3. Kidneys

Upper right toothache might be related to kidney fire. If the upper teeth appear dull or feel sore, with minimal gum redness or swelling, and are accompanied by symptoms like warm palms, night-time lower back and knee discomfort, this may be due to deficient fire arising from kidney yin deficiency. It is recommended to use medications such as Zhibai Dihuang Pills, Liuwei Dihuang Pills, or Zuogui Pills under a doctor’s direction.

Besides the above causes, toothache might also be due to yin deficiency with ascending fire. Patients are advised to drink more water, consume fresh vegetables and fruits, and maintain good oral hygiene.