A toothache can happen due to many reasons, from a food particle stuck in your gum to a broken tooth or a bacterial infection. Some toothaches can be treated by simple home remedies, while serious symptoms need professional treatment to relieve the pain no matter what the dental problems are
In this article, we will outline the common causes of toothache and what the treatment is and how to prevent it.
Causes of Toothache
1. Cavities
The most common cause of toothache is dental cavities or tooth decay. This happens when there’s a buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth, which causes an infection that leads to pain in the affected area.
2. Gum Disease
Periodontal disease or gum disease happen when food particles get stuck in between the teeth and gums, leading to an infection that causes pain. Gum disease might also cause sensitivity in the affected area.
3. Broken Tooth
A broken tooth can be a result of trauma or biting on something too hard. A cracked tooth can cause extreme discomfort and should be seen by a dentist as soon as possible for proper dental treatment.
4. Tooth abscess
An abscess is a pocket of pus that’s caused by bacteria due to an infection in or around the root of the tooth. It can cause swelling, fever, and severe pain in the affected area.
5. Sinus Infection
A sinus infection can cause toothache as well. The problem can be treated with antibiotics, but if the pain persists, it’s best to consult a doctor.
6. Tooth Grinding
Constant tooth grinding or bruxism can cause inflammation and lead to toothache. Your dentist might recommend a mouth guard to prevent further damage.
7. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause sharp pain, swelling and difficulty in opening the mouth. An impacted wisdom tooth should be removed by a professional as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
When to See a Dentist?
It’s important to see a dentist if the toothache is accompanied by any of these symptoms:
- Severe pain that doesn’t subside overnight
- Swelling in the mouth and face
- Discharge of pus from the affected area
- Fever or difficulty in opening your mouth
- An abscessed tooth
A professional can diagnose the cause of the pain and provide proper treatment to relieve it. It’s best not to wait for the symptoms to worsen before seeking medical help, as this might lead to more serious health complications.
Medical Treatment for Toothache
The treatment for tooth pain depends on the underlying cause. For example, suppose it’s caused by a dental cavity or gum disease such as receding gums. In that case, your dentist may recommend a filling or root canal treatment for the infected tooth to restore the damaged area and relieve the pain. If it’s caused by an abscess, antibiotics might be prescribed to treat the infection. Other treatments include painkillers and numbing medications.
How to Prevent Toothache?
The best way to prevent toothache is to practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and visit the dentist for regular checkups. Avoid eating sugary food and drinking acidic beverages as they are known to cause tooth decay. Also, if you grind or clench your teeth, wear a mouth guard at night to reduce the risk of developing a toothache.
In conclusion, there are various causes and treatments for toothache. It is important to seek professional help if the pain persists despite home treatment.
If you or a member of your family has a toothache, don’t wait to see a dentist. Our friendly dental team at My Local Dentists will promptly treat your toothache and relieve your pain. Give us a call on (02) 9171 0840 or use our online form to book an appointment today.
References
Tooth Pain
https://www.aae.org/patients/dental-symptoms/tooth-pain/
Tooth Decay
https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tooth-decay
Toothache
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/toothache/
Impacted Wisdom teeth
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wisdom-teeth/symptoms-causes/syc-20373808