When you have a toothache, everyone understands that you want relief. Treatment for it is available, but it is important to know that it will probably only get worse. Teeth do not heal themselves. Dental treatment for toothachesis available and it will provide you with a permanent solution.
Causes of Aching Teeth
The primary cause of toothaches is bacteria. Some of the bacteria in your mouth produce acid when it consumes sugar. Leaving the bacteria and acid on your teeth slowly erodes the enamel from your teeth, eventually causing a cavity.
The cavity, when it is eroded enough, will enable food, temperature, etc., to reach the nerve in the tooth. This will lead to sensitive teeth. It may also lead to an abscess if the infection goes through the tooth and into the gums below.
An abscessed tooth is a serious problem that needs attention right away. When the inflammation occurs at the root tip of a tooth, it can spread into the gums and into the bone. It will be very painful and may even become fatal. A dentist is needed to drain the pus from the site and a root canal will need to be performed to save the tooth.
Bacteria that will cause inflammation can also get into the tooth or gums other ways. They may come through:
- A crack or chip in a tooth
- Around a damaged filling or crown
- Through gum disease
There are some things that you may try at home if a dentist is not available. They include:
- Over-the-counter toothache pain relief medications
- Gently floss around the tooth
- A cold compress
- Apply clove oil with a cotton swab
- Apply a warm and moist peppermint tea bag
After diagnosing the problem, the dentist will likely want to put a filling in the tooth if the pain is caused by a cavity. This will be done after the decayed portion of the tooth has been removed. Several types of fillings are available, including tooth-colored ones. In most cases, after the decay has been removed and a filling or root canal has been completed, the pain will be permanently gone.
Symptoms of More Serious Problems
As already mentioned, a tooth abscess can be very serious. When certain symptoms appear, it is a medical emergency and you need to get to a dentist or emergency room immediately. Symptoms to look for include:
- Pain that lasts for more than one day
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Pain when you bite
- Foul-tasting discharge of pus
- Gums that are unusually red
Preventing Tooth Pain
It is easier to prevent tooth pain than to have to go to the dentist after you have a toothache. It will also be cheaper. You can help prevent tooth pain by brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time. You also want to floss and cut down on your sugar intake. Eating healthy will also help to keep your teeth strong.
The Bright White Dental office can help you and your family members when you have toothaches. Our friendly dentists provide preventive dentistry for patients of all ages and we help you keep your smile looking good.