Toothaches can be debilitating and extremely uncomfortable, making it difficult to eat, drink, or even sleep. Toothaches can be caused by a variety of factors, including cavities, dental injuries, or gum disease. Fortunately, there are ways to treat a toothache so that you can say goodbye to the pain.
In this article, you’ll learn the causes of toothache and some effective methods of treating and preventing it. Whether you’re experiencing a mild toothache or an intense one, you’ll find the answers you need to get rid of it and start feeling better.
Causes of Toothache Pain
A toothache can be caused by a variety of factors, such as cavities, dental injuries, gum disease, and infection. Below is a breakdown of some of the main causes of toothache pain;
- Cavities are the most common cause of toothache and can occur when bacteria in the mouth break down the enamel on your teeth.
- Dental injuries can also cause toothache. This includes cracked or chipped teeth, which can be caused by biting down on something hard or trauma to the face.
- Gum disease, or periodontal disease, can also cause a toothache. This is an infection of the gums that can make them swell and become inflamed.
- Infection in the tooth or jaw can cause a toothache. This is usually due to an untreated cavity or dental injury.
Signs and Symptoms of a Toothache
The primary symptom of a toothache is pain. This pain can range from mild to severe and can be localised to one or two teeth. The pain may worsen with chewing, drinking, or even touching the affected tooth. Some of the symptoms you may experience include;
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures in the affected tooth
- Swelling or tenderness of the gums near the affected tooth
- In some cases, you may experience a bad taste in your mouth or bad breath due to the infection.
Diagnosing a Toothache
If you’re experiencing a toothache, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist will be able to diagnose the cause of your toothache and develop a treatment plan.
During the appointment, the dentist will examine your teeth and gums to look for signs of infection or damage. They may also take X-rays to look for cavities or cracks in the teeth. Depending on the cause of the toothache, your dentist may also recommend additional tests such as a CT scan or an MRI.
Toothache Remedies
There are two home remedies that you can try to relieve your toothache:
1. One of the most effective methods is to rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
2. You can also use a cold compress or an ice pack on the affected area to reduce inflammation and numb the pain.
Over-the-Counter Medications for Toothache Relief
Over-the-counter medications can be used to help manage the pain of a toothache. The two most commonly used medications for toothache pain are;
- Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory medication that can reduce swelling and pain.
- Acetaminophen is a pain reliever that can provide short-term relief.
Be sure to follow the directions on the package and talk to your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications.
Prescription Medications for Toothache Relief
In some cases, your dentist may prescribe a stronger medication to help manage your toothache pain. These medications may include antibiotics to fight infection or stronger pain relievers such as opioids.
Your dentist will be able to recommend the best medication for your particular situation. It’s important to take the medication as directed and to let your dentist know if you experience any side effects.
Dental Treatments for Toothache Pain
In many cases, the only way to permanently get rid of a toothache is to treat the underlying cause. This may involve getting a filling to repair a cavity, getting a root canal to treat an infection, or getting a dental crown to repair a cracked or broken tooth. Your dentist will be able to determine the best treatment for your particular situation.
Alternative Treatments for Toothache Pain
In addition to traditional treatments, there are several alternative treatments that can be used to manage toothache pain. Some of the more popular treatments for toothache pain include;
- Acupuncture – can help reduce inflammation and pain
- Herbal remedies such as clove oil – can help to reduce inflammation and pain
- Chiropractic care or massage therapy – can offer relief to some people
Tips for Avoiding Toothache Pain
The best way to avoid toothache pain is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash.
It’s also important to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. This will help detect any potential problems before they become serious. Finally, it’s important to eat a balanced diet and avoid sugary and acidic foods, which can increase your risk of cavities and other dental problems.
When to Contact Your Dentist
Toothaches can be extremely painful and disruptive, but there are ways to get rid of toothache pain. The key is to identify the underlying cause and treat it properly. Home remedies, over-the-counter medications, and prescription medications can be used to manage the pain.
However, in some cases, dental treatments such as fillings or root canals may be necessary. Finally, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly to help prevent underlying issues which may contribute to toothache pain.
If you are experiencing a persistent or severe tooth ache, give our Melbourne clinic a call on (03) 9593-1811 or book a consultation with one of our dentists.
