Toothaches are quite common and can be caused due to multiple reasons. It could be a food particle stuck in your gums or a bacterial infection. In any case, getting a professional dental consultation is best to find the problem and start an effective treatment.
Where does tooth pain come from
Our teeth are formed by many layers. The uppermost hard-shell layer is enamel, then comes the bony dentin cells. After that, there is the soft tissue layer called the pulp. This layer joins the nerves and blood vessels to the root of each tooth. The gingiva or the gums support the teeth.
Due to tooth decay, the enamel gets eroded and exposes the dentin. This makes your tooth sensitive to hot or cold foods. If the infection has penetrated the pulp, then your nerve ends get hit and trigger a sharp pain. The bacteria can seep into the nerves causing irreversible pain that gets aggravated at night!
Common causes of a toothache
Gum inflammation
Symptoms of gum inflammation are sensitivity to cold or hot foods, soreness, and swelling around the teeth. If left untreated, it could potentially lead to permanent teeth damage.
Tooth decay
Bacterial infections can be the death of your teeth! If you find plaque and tartar deposits, immediately schedule teeth cleaning with your dentist. Ignore this, and you may have to get a surgery done to replace your rotting teeth. Teeth cleaning can help you with a confident smile as well.
Teeth injury
In case of an accident or have experienced trauma resulting in a broken tooth, take prompt corrective action by visiting the dentist. If any trauma has impacted the face, head, or neck, seek immediate medical attention. Procrastinating in such situations can give rise to more significant problems.
Abscess/boils
Boils and abscesses can cause severe nagging pain, gum swelling, and sensitivity. Your endodontist can do a proper evaluation, save your tooth, and prescribe the necessary treatment or antibiotic.
Damaged filling
Fillings can fall out or get damaged. Avoid the risk of swallowing loose filling by getting it fixed as soon as you identify the problem.
Schedule an emergency dentist visit if you notice any of these signs after a toothache – fever, swollen face or jaw, trouble swallowing or breathing, or no reduction in pain after more than 24 hours.
Toothache solutions
Preventive measures such as maintaining healthy oral care and routine dental checkups go a long way in saving you from experiencing toothache! Flossing every day, brushing adequately twice every day, and having a balanced diet with less sugar are good places to start.
Nevertheless, if you do have teeth issues, your dentist can patch you up. Many treatments like deep dental cleaning, cavity filling, root canal therapy, cosmetic dentistry, and tooth extraction can fix the problem. Nowadays, tooth extraction can be done painlessly.
Although you can use home remedies like using cloves, vanilla extract, peppermint tea, cold compression, salt water, or hydrogen peroxide rinse, these tend to offer temporary relief. Consult your dentist to find the exact cause of your toothache and get the required treatment. Caring for your teeth and maintaining good oral hygiene will help you avoid the need for emergency dentist visits. Your pearly whites will thank you for taking good care of them. So keep a healthy and happy smile on your face with regular dental checkups!