What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
toothache
Example
I have a terrible toothache and need to see a dentist. [toothache: noun]
Example
She winced in pain as she tried to eat with her toothache. [toothache: adjective]
odontalgia
Example
The patient complained of odontalgia and was prescribed pain medication. [odontalgia: noun]
Example
The dentist diagnosed the patient with odontalgia due to a cavity. [odontalgia: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Toothache is much more commonly used than odontalgia in everyday language, and is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts. Odontalgia is a more formal and less common term that is typically used in medical or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between toothache and odontalgia?
Odontalgia is a more formal term than toothache and is typically used in medical or technical contexts. Toothache is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.