Toothache is pain in or around a tooth. This is usually caused by decay, infection, injury, or gum problems. Toothache can range from mild discomfort to severe throbbing pain. This sometimes requires prompt dental care to treat the cause effectively.
This blog tells us more about toothache in detail – its types, causes, symptoms, and more!
Types of toothache
Toothache symptoms can be of various types. It differs on the condition of its cause. Some common types of toothaches are:
- Sensitivity in teeth to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Throbbing pain in the tooth roots.
- Persistent dull discomfort.
- Swelling in the gums and in the surrounding of the tooth
- Sudden, sharp or stabbing pain
- Fever or chills feeling in severe cases
- Headaches connected to dental pain
- Bad taste in the mouth or bad breath
Causes
Tooth pain can result from various dental issues. Some are like:
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Infection leading to an abscessed tooth
- Cracks or fractures in a tooth
- Problems with fillings, crowns, or other dental work
- Grinding or clenching teeth (bruxism)
- Gum infections or periodontal disease
Symptoms of toothaches
Toothache appears suddenly and is felt on one side of the face. It ranges from mild to severe and can be constant, throbbing, or intermittent. Toothache also affects the head, ear, and jaw. Though it is not necessarily, but sometimes.
Other common symptoms include:
- Swelling around the tooth or inside the mouth
- Swelling of the jaw or face
- Pain while chewing
- Bleeding from teeth or gums
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
How to get rid of a toothache?
Toothache can occur due to many reasons. Some may include serious causes. That’s why you can’t always prevent toothaches with random toothache medicines. Yet, certain steps can reduce your pain and discomfort. Here we are suggesting some ways.
- Brush your teeth two to three times a day. Try to use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss once a day to remove trapped food and plaque.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash twice daily to reduce bacteria.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks. These can cause cavities.
- Visit your dentist for regular check-ups. You can go once every three months.
- Ask your dentist about preventive treatments like sealants and fluoride applications if needed.
Home remedies for a toothache
Mild tooth pain can be managed using simple home remedies for toothache. But you should consult a dentist if it becomes serious. Some effective home remedies for toothache include:
- Saltwater rinse: Mix 1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of warm water, swish for 30 seconds, then spit. This helps to reduce inflammation and heal minor mouth wounds.
- Hydrogen peroxide rinse: Dilute equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide, swish, then spit. It can ease pain, inflammation, and bleeding gums.
- Ice packs: Apply a cold pack or wrapped ice to the outside of your jaw for 20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and discomfort.
When to see a dentist
You should visit a dentist without any delay if you experience:
- Your toothache lasts for more than two days.
- Any kind of swelling in the jaw, face, or gums.
- Pain when you open your mouth wide.
- Continuous sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
Medicines for a toothache and swelling
Though there needs specific treatment to cure any kind of toothache effectively. Still, if you are experiencing pain or swelling in the tooth or gum area, some pain reliever can help to reduce discomfort temporarily.
Toothache medicines for pain and swelling
- Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can reduce pain and tenderness temporarily. Here we recommend you to always follow the instructions on the packet.
- Antibiotics are usually prescribed only if there is visible infection or swelling. They do not cure the underlying dental issue on their own.
- Avoid using clove oil or gargling with aspirin. These are not recommended for safe relief.
- In some cases, a local anaesthetic gel may be used for short-term relief under dentist guidance.
Dental treatment procedures for toothache and swelling
Dental filling
For small cavities or minor tooth damage, the dentist removes the damaged portion and fills it with a strong dental material.
Dental crown
Dental crown is done against larger cavities or fractured teeth. Crown means a tooth-shaped thing covers and protects the entire tooth. This is done to prevent further damage.
Inlays or onlays
Inlays or outlays are used when a cavity or crack is too large for a filling but not severe enough for a crown. These involve ceramic pieces to fit into the tooth like a puzzle.
Root canal therapy
Root canal therapy is done when the infection reaches the tooth pulp. The dentist removes and cleans the inflamed nerves, blood vessels, and tissues from the deep inside of the tooth. Then the dentist fills again the pulp chamber and root canals, and usually places a crown for protection.
Tooth extraction
For severely damaged or infected teeth, the dentist carefully removes the tooth and cleans the area. Sometimes even replacement options and also made. Dental bridges or implants can restore function and appearance.
