If you’re reading this, chances are you’re experiencing a toothache and are looking for some guidance on what to do. First of all, let’s address the elephant in the room: you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
While it may be tempting to try and tough it out or take some over-the-counter pain medication and hope for the best, the truth is that a toothache is not something to be taken lightly. It’s essential to get to the root of the problem and address it before it worsens.
What’s Causing My Toothache?
So, what could be causing your toothache? There are a few potential culprits:
- Cavities: Cavities are perhaps the most common cause of toothaches. They’re caused by bacteria that produce acid that eats away at your tooth enamel, forming a hole or “cavity.” If left untreated, cavities can lead to serious infections and tooth loss.
- Gum disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues and bones that support your teeth. It can cause red, swollen gums that bleed easily, as well as tooth loss.
- Tooth fractures: If you’ve recently suffered an injury to your mouth or have been grinding your teeth, you may have a fractured tooth. Tooth fractures can range from small cracks to complete breaks and can be extremely painful.
- Abscesses: An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms when bacteria invade a tooth or the surrounding tissue. Abscesses can be extremely painful and lead to serious complications if left untreated.
- Impacted wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to come in, and they often don’t have enough room to emerge from the gums properly. This can cause them to become impacted, leading to pain and infection.
There are a few other potential causes of toothaches, including tooth sensitivity, TMJ disorders, and sinus infections. Still, the ones listed above are some of the most common.
How Can a Dentist Help?
If you’re dealing with tooth pain, there are a few ways a dentist can help you find relief.
First and foremost, a dentist can determine the cause of the toothache. As we previously went over, tooth pain has many causes, and each may require a specific treatment plan. A dentist can examine your mouth and teeth to try to identify the correct source, utilizing X-rays or other diagnostic tests.
Once the cause is determined, a dentist can get to work providing relief. Depending on why you have a toothache, this could be by offering pain medication. If you have a cavity, a dentist may fill the cavity. If an infected tooth causes the toothache, this might require a root canal.
Moreover, a dentist can recommend preventive measures to save you from future toothaches. Of course, good oral hygiene is key, such as brushing, flossing, and getting regular dental check-ups.
What Can I Do to Manage Toothache Pain?
Now that we’ve covered some potential causes (and you hopefully booked an appointment with your dentist), let’s talk about what you can do in the meantime to manage your pain.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication: While this won’t fix the underlying problem, it can help to alleviate some of the discomfort in the meantime.
- Rinse with warm salt water: This can help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. To make the rinse, mix half a teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and use it to rinse your mouth a few times a day. And make sure you spit it out, don’t swallow.
- Apply a cold compress: Placing a cold compress on the outside of your cheek can help to numb the area and reduce swelling. Just be sure to wrap the compress in a thin cloth to protect your skin.
- Use clove oil: For a natural remedy, clove oil has pain-relieving and antibacterial properties that can help to alleviate toothache pain. However, dilute the oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil before applying it to your gums, as undiluted clove oil can irritate your skin.
- Avoid hot and cold foods: If you have a toothache, you’ll want to avoid foods and drinks that are extremely hot or cold, as they can exacerbate the pain. Stick to lukewarm options instead.
- Use over-the-counter numbing gel: If your toothache is severe, you may want to consider using an over-the-counter numbing gel to help alleviate the pain. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging and avoid using the gel for more than a few days at a time, as prolonged use can lead to numbness in your mouth.
- Take care of your oral hygiene: Proper oral hygiene is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. If you have a toothache, it’s especially important to brush and floss gently to avoid further irritation.
Finding Relief From Toothaches
Don’t take tooth pain lightly. If you’re experiencing a toothache, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is essential to get to the root of the problem and address it before it gets worse.Sixth Line Family Dental is experienced in dealing with toothaches. If you’re experiencing tooth pain and don’t know why, come in for a checkup. Our team is ready to help you find relief.