Toothaches: What You Need To Know
A toothache is a pain in or around a tooth commonly caused by dental trauma, infections, decay, and tooth loss. The tooth pain originates from trauma to the bone structure, pulp inflammation, or irritation on the surrounding gum. Toothaches can be treated using home remedies if the pain is mild, but in severe pain circumstances, treatment by a dental professional is advised. Wytheville Dental Group specializes in general dentistry and offer clients crucial details on oral health and treatment options. This article will highlight what you need to know about toothaches and some of the preventative measures.
What Toothaches Feel Like
Tooth pain may feel sharp or constant
• Swelling or tenderness around the tooth
• Throbbing pain around the gum or tooth
• Fever
• Sharp pain when you bite down
• Sensitivity in the tooth to changes in food or drink temperatures
• Foul tasting and bad odors from the mouth or infected tooth
Causes And Treatment Toothaches
Causes of pain on the tooth or surrounding structures may include:
Tooth decay
Damage to the tooth’s surface occurs when there’s a buildup of bacteria-making acids on the tooth, causing holes. It is mainly caused by poor oral hygiene.
Treatment
• Antibiotics
• Tooth fillings
• Good oral hygiene
Tooth fracture
A broken tooth can expose the pulp, causing pain every time you bite down or chew. The fracture allows water, air, food particles, and bacteria to get into the tooth, triggering pain.
Treatment
Filling or veneers
Abscessed tooth
It is a buildup of pus on pulp due to bacterial infection
Treatment
• Draining out the abscess
• Antibiotics
• Root canal
Infected gums
Gingivitis is caused by poor diet, smoking, health conditions,
Treatment
• Medicated mouthwash
• Antibiotics
Home remedies for toothaches
• Taking pain killers
• Rinse with warm salty water
• Rinse with hydrogen peroxide
• Cold press
When To Consult a Dentist
Dental infections can spread to the skull or bloodstream; hence consult a dentist when the following persist:
• Swelling gum or face
• Severe pain when you open your mouth
• High fever longer than two days
Prevention Measures
- Brushing with fluoride toothpaste
- Good oral hygiene
- Regular dental visits
- Avoid grinding on hard foods
- Minimizing sugar levels in beverages and food
Wytheville Dental Group provides quality dental services and tips on ensuring good oral hygiene. Contact us with any question regarding dental health and get assistance from our qualified personnel.
