The song opens with the narrator expressing a sense of being trapped in a relationship that feels more like a burden than a joy. The imagery of being walked back to a house suggests a return to a familiar yet painful place, where the narrator feels neglected and overshadowed by another person. The line “Watch me rot in his place” indicates a feeling of decay and stagnation, emphasizing the emotional toll of watching someone they care about be with another. The physical closeness described in the lyrics, such as having a hand in a pocket and eyes on a face, contrasts sharply with the emotional distance felt by the narrator, highlighting the dissonance between physical intimacy and emotional connection.

As the song progresses, the metaphor of the toothache becomes more pronounced. The repeated lines about the toothache that “won’t heal but won’t break” encapsulate the idea of persistent pain that is both debilitating and oddly comforting. This duality reflects the complexity of love, where the narrator is caught in a cycle of longing and hurt. The toothache symbolizes not just emotional pain but also the addictive nature of unreciprocated love, where the narrator finds it difficult to let go despite the suffering it brings.

The lyrics further explore the narrator’s internal conflict, as they pretend to engage in conversations while feeling disconnected. The line “I’d usually nod in agreement but just not today” suggests a moment of clarity where the narrator recognizes their emotional state and the futility of pretending. This moment of honesty adds depth to the song, revealing the struggle to maintain a facade in the face of overwhelming feelings.

The chorus, with its repetition of the toothache metaphor, serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing emotional turmoil. The narrator’s acknowledgment of the pain, coupled with the admission that they can never get enough, illustrates the paradox of love—where the very thing that causes suffering is also something they crave. This cyclical nature of hope and despair is a central theme in the song, capturing the essence of unfulfilled love.

In the latter part of the song, the mention of a woman who calls when she needs someone adds another layer to the narrative. It suggests a sense of obligation and emotional labor, where the narrator feels compelled to be there for someone who is emotionally unavailable. The lines “It feels so wrong when I play along” highlight the moral conflict faced by the narrator, who is torn between their feelings and the reality of the situation. The repetition of the phrase “she cries her heart out” emphasizes the emotional weight of the relationship, suggesting that both parties are suffering in their own ways.

Ultimately, “Toothache” is a reflection on the complexities of love, longing, and emotional pain. The vivid imagery and relatable metaphors create a hauntingly beautiful portrayal of a relationship that is both intimate and isolating, leaving the listener with a sense of melancholy and introspection.

Released in 2023, “Toothache” reflects a contemporary exploration of emotional struggles in relationships, resonating with a generation that often grapples with themes of mental health and emotional well-being. The song’s metaphor of a toothache serves as a relatable symbol for the persistent pain many experience in unreciprocated love, making it relevant in today’s cultural landscape where discussions around emotional health are increasingly prominent.