Toothaches: Causes, Types, And Treatment
If you’re one of the millions of Americans who experience a toothache each year, you know how debilitating the pain can be. But what causes a toothache? And what are the best ways to treat it?
Table of Contents
What are the most common causes of toothaches
Toothaches are one of the most common reasons people see their dentist. While there are many different possible causes, here are some of the most common:
1. Cavities. When bacteria-filled plaque and tartar build up on teeth, it can cause cavities. These small holes in the tooth can lead to pain and sensitivity.
2. Gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can also lead to tooth loss.
3. Tooth grinding (bruxism). Clenching and grinding your teeth can put a lot of pressure on them and lead to pain. It’s often worse at night when you’re stressed or anxious.
4. Jaw joint problems (TMJ). The temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects your lower jaw to your skull. If it doesn’t work properly, it can cause pain in your jaw, face, and ears.
5. Trauma. A fall, a blow to the mouth, or other trauma can damage teeth and lead to pain.
6. Infection. An infection in the tooth or in the tissue around it can cause severe pain. This is usually a result of untreated tooth decay or gum disease.
How can you tell if you have a toothache
There are a few ways to tell if you have a toothache. First, check to see if you have any pain or sensitivity when you eat or drink anything cold or hot. This can be a sign that you have a cavity or an infection in your tooth. Another way to tell if you have a toothache is to check your gums for any swelling or redness. If you see any of these signs, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible so they can treat the problem before it gets worse.
What are some home remedies for toothaches
There are many home remedies for toothaches, but which one is right for you depends on the severity of your pain and the underlying cause of your toothache. If you have a mild toothache, you may be able to find relief with a simple home remedy like rinsing your mouth with warm water or using a cold compress. If you have a more severe toothache, you may need to take over-the-counter pain medication or see your dentist for treatment.
To help relieve a mild toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water or use a cold compress on your cheek. You can also try swishing a mixture of 1 teaspoon salt and 8 ounces warm water around your mouth for 30 seconds. If you have a more severe toothache, take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. You can also try placing a small piece of cotton soaked in clove oil on the affected tooth. If your toothache is accompanied by fever, swelling, or redness, see your dentist as soon as possible as these could be signs of an infection.
When should you see a dentist for a toothache
If you have a toothache that lasts longer than one or two days, you should see a dentist. You may have an infection or another serious problem.
What are the best pain relievers for toothaches
There are many pain relievers that can be effective for toothaches. Over-the-counter options include ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin. You can also try numbing the area with a topical anesthetic like lidocaine. If the pain is severe, your dentist may prescribe a stronger medication.
What are the different types of toothaches
There are many different types of toothaches that can occur. Each type of toothache is associated with a different set of symptoms.
One common type of toothache is caused by a cavity. Cavities are small holes in the teeth that can become infected. The infection can cause the tooth to become sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. The pain may also be worse when pressure is applied to the tooth.
Another common type of toothache is caused by gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can cause the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. The pain from gum disease is often worse when eating or brushing the teeth.
Toothaches can also be caused by TMJ disorders. TMJ disorders are problems with the jaw joint that can cause pain in the face, neck, and head. The pain from TMJ disorders is often worse when chewing or yawning.
What are the symptoms of a toothache
One of the most common symptoms of a toothache is a sharp, throbbing pain that radiates from the affected tooth. The pain may be constant or may come and go. Other common symptoms include sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, pain when chewing, and swollen gums. If the toothache is caused by an infection, there may also be fever, increased pain at night, and a foul-tasting discharge from the affected tooth.
How long do toothaches last
Toothaches can last for a variety of reasons. If you have a toothache, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Depending on the cause of your toothache, the pain could last for days, weeks, or even longer. If you have an infection, the pain may go away once the infection is treated. However, if the toothache is caused by a cavity, the pain may last until the cavity is filled.
How can you prevent toothaches
Toothaches can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. You should also avoid sugary and acidic foods, which can cause tooth decay. If you do get a toothache, over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
What are some dental treatments for toothaches
There are a few different things that your dentist can do to help treat your toothache. They will first assess what is causing the pain and then recommend a course of treatment. This might involve cleaning the tooth, doing a root canal, or extracting the tooth. In some cases, you might need to see an endodontist (a root canal specialist) or an oral surgeon.