Severe tooth pain and gum infection can result from several factors, such as tooth decay, an abscess, a deep cavity, trapped food, wisdom tooth issues, or a bacterial infection near the gums and tooth roots. Common symptoms are throbbing pain, swollen gums, pus, a bad taste in your mouth, trouble chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, or pain that spreads to your jaw, ear, or head. Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicine can give short-term relief, but antibiotics may be needed if you have a lot of swelling, pus, or a serious gum infection. Rinsing with warm salt water, maintaining gentle oral care, avoiding very hot, cold, or sugary foods, and keeping the area clean can help reduce irritation and bacterial growth. Using a cold compress on your cheek can also help with swelling and pain. In many cases, dental treatment like cleaning, draining the infection, a root canal, or removing the tooth may be needed, since medicine alone usually does not fix the problem for good. Do not put aspirin directly on your gums, as it can harm the tissue and make things worse. Consult a dentist if your face swells up, you get a fever, have trouble opening your mouth, swallowing becomes hard, or if the pain is too much even after taking medicine.