From severe agony to hindering your daily activities, a toothache is an unfortunate experience that no one should have to go through. Unfortunately, it’s often provoked by aspects outside of our control – like consuming acidified meals or grinding our teeth during slumber. Thankfully, there are practises you can utilise in order to lower the likelihood of acquiring such dental pain in the future!
What is a Toothache Pain?
A toothache is a pain in the teeth and/or jaw area that can range from mild to severe. It can be caused by anything from poor dental hygiene to a sinus infection or even a cavity. For temporary pain relief, a pain reliever like acetaminophen can help provide some measure of comfort. If the pain persists, it is recommended that you consult with your dentist to get an accurate diagnosis and guidance on pain management. Various treatments may include fillings or extractions depending on the cause of the oral pain. With the right medical and dental attention, you’ll soon enjoy having smiles without experiencing any toothache.
Causes of Toothache
1. Cavities
1. CavitiesThese are one of the most common reasons for toothache. Cavities occur when a layer of plaque builds up on your teeth, causing decay and discomfort in the affected area. If left unattended, cavities can lead to more serious issues, such as tooth decay or even tooth loss.
2. Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs when bacteria and plaque build up around your gums, causing them to become inflamed and infected. In addition to resulting in gum pain, gum disease can also lead to jawbone damage if left untreated for too long.
3. Infection
An infection can cause severe pain in your mouth as it spreads throughout your teeth and gums. This type of infection may require antibiotics or even surgery to properly treat it and alleviate any discomfort or pain you’re experiencing from it.
4. Tooth Grinding
Many people don’t realise they grind their teeth while they sleep, but this habit can actually wear down enamel over time and expose sensitive areas in your mouth that were previously protected by layers of enamel. This can lead to a throbbing pain in those areas when you wake up each morning, especially if you grind for extended periods of time each night without realising it.
5. Dental Trauma
Dental trauma is another possible cause for a toothache; if you suffer from an injury that affects your face or mouth, such as a blow to the head or jaw, this could potentially damage one or multiple teeth in the process, leading to a throbbing sensation in those affected areas afterwards due to broken nerves inside the damaged parts of the tooth.
6. Teeth Sensitivity
Teeth sensitivity, or dentin hypersensitivity, occurs when the underlying dentin layer is exposed due to drastic temperature changes. Exposure to hot or cold food and beverages can lead to a sharp pain in your mouth whenever similar triggers occur again. This heightened sensation is caused by the sudden exposure of the dentin layer without warning signs from other sources, such as bacteria buildup or decay prior to the trigger.
7. Dental Abscesses
Dental abscesses are a collection of pus caused by bacterial infections that form pockets inside one’s gums or near the roots. This type of infection tends to spread quickly within hours and can result in severe pain throughout the entire mouth, regardless of which area was infected. Prompt medical attention is essential for people of all ages and backgrounds once this symptom arises to prevent the infection from spreading further. Therefore, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible whether the abscess developed suddenly or gradually over time.
Remedies for Toothache Relief
There are several remedies you can try at home that may provide some temporary relief from your toothache.
Salt Water Rinse
Salt Water Rinse One of the most basic yet effective remedies for toothache is a saltwater rinse.
Start by dissolving 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and stirring until the salt has completely dissolved.
Then, use this solution as a mouthwash for 30 seconds or so before spitting it out. This helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain and discomfort associated with toothache.
Use Hot Pack
Another remedy is to apply a hot pack to your cheek near where the pain is located. The heat helps relax tense muscles, which can help reduce the pain associated with toothache. Make sure not to apply anything too hot directly on your skin, as this could cause burns or further irritation. Instead, wrap a damp cloth around something warm, such as a heating pad or hot water bottle, and hold it against your cheek for 10-15 minutes at a time.
Apply Cold Compress
Using a cold compress on the affected region can also help reduce inflammation and provide some relief from pain. You can wrap ice cubes in a damp cloth or use an ice pack, then hold it against your cheek for 10 minutes at a time every few hours or as needed throughout the day. Be careful not to leave it on too long, as this could cause frostbite or other injuries if left on too long.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
A hydrogen peroxide rinse can help cleanse and disinfect any bacteria that may be causing your toothache, so make sure to give this remedy a try if nothing else seems to be helping much. To do this, mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and warm water, then swish it around in your mouth and spit it out. Do this once every day until you notice an improvement in your symptoms, then continue with twice weekly rinses after that if necessary.
What Are Some Common Dental Treatments for Tooth Pain Relief?
Filling
During a filling, the dentist will remove any decay from the affected tooth, then fill it with material like composite resin or metal amalgam to fill in any gaps. Fillings are an effective way to prevent further damage and treat mild to moderate pain caused by cavities or other issues with the teeth or gums.
Root Canal
If your toothache is caused by an infection in the nerve of your tooth, then you may need a root canal treatment. During this procedure, your dentist will remove the infected nerve tissue and clean out any bacteria that has spread into your surrounding tissues. Then they will fill and seal up the area to prevent further infection or damage. Root canals are usually recommended if you have had severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medications or other treatments.
Crowns
If you have broken a large portion of your tooth due to injury or decay, then you may need to get a crown (or cap) placed on it. Crowns are custom-made pieces of porcelain or metal that fit over your existing teeth and provide extra protection against further damage and wear and tear. They also help restore functionality to damaged teeth so you can eat properly without worrying about further discomfort or pain.
Tooth Extraction
Tooth ExtractionIn some cases, if your toothache is too severe to be treated with fillings, crowns, root canals or other treatments, it may need to be extracted (removed).
Your dentist will do their best to save as much of your natural tooth as possible; however, if extraction is necessary, they will make sure that it’s done as gently as possible so you don’t experience too much discomfort during the process. Extractions are usually done as a last resort when all other options have been exhausted.
How to Prevent a Toothache?
1. Brush and floss regularly
This one is a no-brainer. By flossing and brushing your teeth every day, you’re helping to remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to toothaches. Be sure to brush for two minutes at least twice a day, and don’t forget to floss!
2. Use the right type of toothbrush
When it comes to preventing toothaches, not all toothbrushes are created equal. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush that will be gentle on your gums. And if you have sensitive teeth, opt for a toothbrush with extra-soft bristles.
3. Avoid sugary drinks
Sugar feeds bacteria, which can lead to cavities and other dental problems that can cause pain. So if you want to avoid a toothache, cut back on sugary drinks like soda, energy drinks, and fruit juice. And when you do indulge, remember to brush your teeth afterwards.
4. Don’t smoke
Smoking is an absolute detriment to your oral health – it has been proven time and again as one of the most dangerous practices for healthy teeth and gums – so it’s no surprise that it can cause toothaches. If you smoke cigarettes or cigars, now is the time to quit. Your mouth and your whole body will thank you for it.
5. Eat healthy foods
A healthy diet is good for your whole body, including your teeth and gums. Eating plenty of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits will help keep your mouth healthy and prevent problems like cavities that can lead to pain down the road.
6. Drink plenty of water
Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that can lead to cavities and other dental issues. It also helps keep your mouth hydrated, which is important for maintaining healthy gums. So make sure to consume plenty of water throughout the day, especially after meals.
7. Visit your dentist regularly
7. Visit your dentist regularlyOne of the best ways to prevent dental problems — including toothaches — is to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Most people should see their dentist every six months, but if you have certain risk factors — such as diabetes or gum disease — you may need to go more often.
8. Keep an eye on any changes in your mouth
If you observe any changes in your mouth, such as sores, swelling, or redness, be sure to see your dentist right away. These could be signs of an infection or another serious problem that needs treatment.
Get the Relief You Deserve at Gordon Family Dental – Your Toothache No Longer Has to Hurt!
At Gordon Family Dental, we understand the pain and inconvenience of a toothache. Whether it’s a sharp, throbbing pain that comes on suddenly or a dull, persistent ache that wakes you in the night, our expert team can help you ease your painful tooth and get back to enjoying life. Our expert staff is trained to identify the cause of your toothache at night and create an individualised treatment plan to make sure you receive the best possible care. Call us today at (02) 9159 6163 to book an appointment and see how we can help relieve your discomfort.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
How to get rid of a toothache at night
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326133
11 Home and Natural Remedies for Toothache Pain
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/home-remedies-for-toothache
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