Toothache:
Causes and Remedies

Causes

The usual symptoms include an intermittent, or continuous, throbbing sensation, with the pain intensifying while eating chewing or drinking cold and/or hot liquids.

Toothaches can be caused by:

• Dental decay or infection
• Irritation of the pulp
• An exposed tooth root
• Mouth injury

Improper brushing leads to plaque, which is food for bacteria. The bacteria and certain acids eat through the enamel surface of the tooth, forming a cavity that fills with decayed matter. The decay then spreads to the inside of the tooth.

Home Remedies

Ice is an excellent home remedy for numbing nerve endings. Oil of cloves is also very helpful. After cleaning all the food out of the cavity with a toothpick, pack a small piece of cotton, soaked in the oil, into the cavity. You may also get relief by putting an ice pack on your jaw.

Most common over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers help, including Paracetamol, Aspirin, Acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen and Mefenamic Acid. They can be used to provide symptomatic relief for short periods.

Professional Treatment

Seek immediate advice from your dentist, before the problem becomes severe. The best way to handle the problem is by going straight to the 'root'.

Consult your dentist immediately if you have one or more of the following symptoms:

• A continuous or throbbing pain in your teeth or jaw
• A tooth that feels long or high
• A loose tooth
• A tooth pain that keeps you up at night

Abscess

Periodontal (gum) infections – pus accumulation in the bone and tissue near a tooth - can lead to an abscess. The common treatment is a root canal procedure, or extraction.

If your dentist feels the tooth can be saved, a root canal may be performed. It involves removal of bacteria, nerve tissue, the organic debris left over from the breakdown of nerve tissue. After this cleansing, root canal treatment involves filling in and sealing off the interior of the tooth.

Extraction of an abscessed tooth can be an alternative to root canal if the tooth cannot be saved. A bridge, partial denture, or implant is a suitable replacement for missing teeth.

Avoiding Toothaches

Of course, prevention is better than cure. The key to preventing toothaches is proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice daily, preferably after every meal. Use dental floss. Visit your dentist regularly.

For a complimentary examination appointment to see what might be causing your toothache and what treatment is best, please contact us online or call 650-965-1234.

We'll answer any questions you may have, and give you a free written estimate regarding costs and insurance benefits before you leave.

Call us today!

Dr. Burch