The Crippling Pain Of A Toothache
A toothache has the potential to keep you from doing things that matter to you. It can interfere with your productivity at work and reduce your ability to enjoy your favorite activities. There are several reasons why you may experience this pain/discomfort. We discuss here some of the possible causes of toothache.
Causes of Toothache
Dr. Mjahed treats patients at Monroe Family Dentistry in Monroe, NC for one of the most common oral health issues, toothaches. There are many reasons why you may experience a toothache. Some of the most common reasons are as follows:
Abscess
Many people experience tooth pain due to an abscess and may not be aware of it. An abscess is a consequence of having decaying foods and other substances lodged in your gums that lead to infection. It is characterized by swelling and pus, which contributes to the pain sensation.
Infection
What some people feel as toothache is actually a pain in the gums due to infection. The mild form of this is gingivitis, which is characterized by red or swollen gums. This condition can progress to the more-severe periodontitis, if not treated, resulting in intense pain.
Injury
You may have a toothache if you experience an injury to the oral cavity. This is more likely to occur during sporting activities, fights or accidents. Physical trauma to the tooth can result in swelling that may put pressure on nerves and blood vessels.
Cavity
If you suffer enamel loss or erosion, holes can develop in your tooth. These holes are known as cavities or dental caries and is one of the most common causes of toothache. Severe pain is more likely if you allow the hole to become very large, resulting in an exposed nerve.
Sinus problems
It is possible for you to experience a toothache from sinus flare-ups. The sinus cavity is located above the roof of the teeth connecting with the nasal cavities. If these cavities become inflamed, pressure builds up and can result in pain in top teeth.
Exercise
It is well-known that regular physical exercise helps to promote good health. But too much of it can make you have a toothache. Research shows that this increases the risk of tooth enamel erosion and cavities is connected to dry mouth.
Home Remedies for Toothache
Cold compress
An ice pack or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel can help to relieve toothache, especially if the affected area is swollen. Simply apply it to your cheek near the area.
Saltwater rinse
Saltwater can serve as an excellent “first aid” before you see your dentist. Mix some salt in warm water, swish with it around and spit it out. This can help in removing food particles and some bacteria that can cause pain.
Pain relievers
You can also use over-the-counter pain medications to relieve discomfort until you can secure a dentist appointment. Ibuprofen is recommended for adults and acetaminophen for children.
Anesthetics
This is a class of drugs that help to achieve a temporary loss of sensation. They promote numbness. It is possible to get some, including benzocaine, over the counter.
Applying OTC anesthetic liquid or gels to the affected tooth and the neighboring gums will numb the pain sensation. These are intended for temporary use, however.
Among the other home remedies that may help for toothaches is clove oil. The efficacy is believed to be about the same as that of benzocaine.
It is worth mentioning that home remedies are not substitutes to professional dental care. You should still see Dr. Mjahed for more effective treatment of your toothache.
Toothache Treatment With Our Dentist in Monroe, NC
Monroe Family Dentistry is there for you and your children from day one and we are happy to work with you and your child to start habits from birth. If you live near Monroe, NC call us to schedule an appointment today at 704.776.4278.
These are just some of the services we provide. To learn more about our dental practice in Monroe NC and the services we provide, call us or submit an appointment request.