What Causes Toothache and How Can You Address It?

A toothache does not occur without a cause, in most cases, the pain is a sign that the teeth and gums are infected. However, you can have referred tooth pain, meaning, another problem in the body is a trigger. Regardless of the cause, you should not ignore toothache because it can worsen if left untreated. This is because some cases can be a sign of a serious condition.

What Causes Toothaches?

The primary causes of toothache include:

• Tooth decay. Bacterial infection is the primary cause of tooth decay. In the early stages, tooth decay does not present any dental symptoms. However, as the infection advances, it affects the pulp and causes pain and sensitivity.
• Abscessed tooth. This is the accumulation of pus on the gums due to bacterial infection. A tooth abscess is a dental emergency and needs to be addressed in urgency. This is because, if left untreated, the abscess will spread to the surrounding tissues and cause pain.
• Tooth fracture can cause pain if it extends to the root.
• Damaged teeth fillings
• Teeth grinding and clenching causes the teeth to wear out, which causes tooth sensitivity causes of referred pain include sinusitis or inflamed sinuses. The inflammation can affect the upper teeth causing pain.

What Are the Symptoms You Can Watch Out For?

Toothache pain ranges from mild to severe and may be intermittent or constant. Some of the signs that you may have an infection include:

• Throbbing pain and swelling around the tooth
• Sharp pain when you bite the teeth
• Tenderness around the tooth
• Lingering tooth sensitivity to hot and cold beverages

When Is Toothache an Emergency?

Tooth pain clears after a couple of days with the use of home remedies and medication. However, you need to visit an emergency dentist if you have any of the following:

• The severe toothache lasts longer than a day to two
• You have fever and earache
• You feel pain when opening your mouth

How Are Toothaches Treated?

Treatment for toothache will depend on the cause. For instance, if you have a cavity, the dentist may recommend teeth fillings to repair the cavity. In advanced cases, a root canal may be done to remove an infected pulp. Antibiotics in oral pills, gels, or mouthwashes may be used to get rid of bacterial infection.

How Can You Handle Tooth Pain At Home?

Before you can decide with a home remedy is ideal, it is important to figure out the cause. It is also important to talk to the dentist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, before using home remedies.

The remedies that you can use include:

• Saltwater rinse

A saltwater rinse is the first-line treatment for tooth pain because salt is a disinfectant. Also, it can help get rid of the food particles and debris stuck in the teeth. Furthermore, salt also helps to reduce inflammation and heal wounds or lacerations.

To make the saltwater, use ½ teaspoon of salt and a warm glass of water and gaggle or rinse the mouth.

• Cold compress

A cold compress helps to ease the pain and reduce swelling. Cold therapy causes the blood vessels to constrict, which will stop swelling. Use an ice pack for 20 minutes on the affected area.

• Hydrogen peroxide rinse

Hydrogen rinse may relieve pain and inflammation as well as eliminate bacteria. Always dilute the peroxide with water before using it.

• Elevation

When you sleep lying down, it may worsen the pain because blood rushes to the affected area, causing pressure and pain. Sleeping with your head elevated when sleeping can help with blood flow.

• Peppermint

Peppermint helps to numb pain and soothe the gums. Use a warm tea bag on the gums to ease the pain. If you have swelling, you can use a cold tea ban instead.

How Can You Prevent Toothache?

Following good oral hygiene can help prevent bacterial infection and toothaches. Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash, and do not forget to floss daily. Also, get regular dental checkups and cleanings to prevent decay and cavities.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Coral Pointe Dental & Orthodontics, AZ, for more information on how you can handle tooth pain.