When Your Teeth Hurt: Know How To Cope

A toothache is one of those maladies that can feel like a full-body ache. Problems in your teeth and gums can cause pain that ranges from a minor throb to sharp and excruciating. You likely want relief fast and you will need professional help as well. While you are waiting to see your dentist, you might want to understand what is causing the pain and how you can make things better. 

What Causes Toothaches?

Toothaches can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Tooth decay: Bacteria in the mouth can break down the enamel on the teeth, leading to cavities and tooth decay. When the decay reaches the nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth, it can cause pain and sensitivity.

Gum disease: Gum disease is an infection of the gums and can cause pain and inflammation around the teeth. 

Tooth abscess: A tooth abscess is a bacterial infection in the root of a tooth, which can cause severe pain and swelling. A full-body infection is possible if the abscess is not treated promptly.

Teeth grinding: Grinding or clenching your teeth can cause damage to the teeth and lead to pain and sensitivity.

Trauma: An injury to the teeth, such as a fracture or chip, can cause pain and sensitivity. Your dentist will perform a repair or a root canal to alleviate the problem.

Making Things Better

To alleviate toothache pain, there are several things you can do:

Over-the-counter pain relievers: Taking pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with toothaches.

Saltwater rinses: Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater may help reduce inflammation and quicken the healing process.

Cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help to reduce swelling and numb the area, which can help to alleviate pain.

Clove oil: Applying a small amount of clove oil to the affected tooth can help to numb the area and provide temporary relief from pain.

Dental treatment: If the toothache is caused by a dental issue like tooth decay or an abscess, dental treatment may be necessary to alleviate the pain and address the underlying issue. This may include a filling, root canal, or extraction, depending on the severity of the problem.

See a dentist if you are experiencing a toothache, as they can identify the underlying cause and provide the appropriate treatment to alleviate the pain and prevent further damage to the teeth.

For more information, contact a general dental care provider near you.