Korean Dictionary
How to say "Toothache" in Korean
“Toothache” in Korean is 치통 (pronounced "chitong").
치통
chitong
Usage & Context
치통 is a common dental complaint in Korea where sweet and acidic foods in the Korean diet can contribute to tooth decay. Koreans are encouraged to brush their teeth after every meal to prevent cavities and 치통. Emergency dental care for severe 치통 is available at hospital dental departments on nights and weekends.
Example Sentence
오른쪽 어금니에 치통이 생겼어요.
I have a toothache in my upper right molar.
How to use 치통 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Toothache” is 치통, romanized as chitong.
Usage tip
When describing symptoms, combine the word with where it hurts, when it started, and how severe it is.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 치통.
Pronunciation Guide
The first syllable, '치' (chi), sounds like 'chee' in 'cheese'. The second syllable, '통' (tong), sounds like 'tong' in 'tongue' but without the 'ue' sound. Both syllables have even stress.
More Example Sentences
Describing a sleepless night due to pain.
밤새 치통 때문에 잠을 설쳤어요.
I couldn't sleep all night because of a toothache.
Giving a warning about diet and dental health.
단 거 많이 먹으면 치통 생길 수 있어요.
If you eat a lot of sweets, you can get a toothache.
Deciding to seek professional dental help.
치통이 너무 심해서 치과에 가야겠어요.
My toothache is so severe I need to go to the dentist.
Cultural Context
In Korea, where sweet and acidic foods are common, dental hygiene is highly emphasized. Many Koreans brush their teeth after every meal, even carrying portable toothbrushes. Severe 치통 can be a real emergency, and hospital dental departments often provide care on nights and weekends, reflecting the importance placed on quick treatment.
Editorial note
We review entries like 치통 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
치통이 심하다
to have a severe toothache
치통이 생기다
to get a toothache
치통약을 먹다
to take toothache medicine
Related Expressions
이빨
ippal
tooth (casual)
치과
chikwa
dental clinic
충치
chungchi
cavity, tooth decay
잇몸
inmom
gum (of the mouth)
More Health & Medical Words
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