Fix Tooth Pain & Toothache
Occasional tooth sensitivity is not uncommon and is usually nothing to worry about but throbbing tooth pain and discomfort is another story. Usually, a toothache is a sure sign of inflammation or infection. Other symptoms you might experience that could indicate an infection include a persistent, dull ache, a sharp pain when eating, tenderness, swelling or redness, or a bad smell or taste in the mouth. If you are feeling any of these symptoms, it is important to get to your dentist as soon as possible for an x-ray so your Dentist can determine the fastest way to get you out of pain!
Below are some dental problems that can cause a toothache along with possible solutions.
Abscess
A tooth abscess can be extremely painful, occurring when part of the tooth pulp dies. When a portion of the pulp dies it can create a pocket of pus and bacteria under the gum. If a damaged tooth is not treated quickly enough, bacteria can get into the pulp of the tooth and cause an infection and inflammation.
An abscess can be treated with antibiotics to kill the infection, likely used in conjunction with draining and cleaning the abscessed area, or root canal treatment.
Periodontal Disease
Gum diseases such as gingivitis and a periodontist can cause a great deal of sensitivity and discomfort. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss. Some causes of periodontal disease include poor oral hygiene, some medications, genetics, smoking, and bad dietary habits.
To clear your mouth of periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend that you receive a scaling and root planing. A local anesthetic is administered for scaling and root planing since the hygienist will use their tools to reach well below the gum surface to clear out infection in the gum pockets. They may also prescribe an antibiotic and/or a medicated mouthwash.
If your periodontal disease is extensive, your Dentist may refer you to a Periodontist for specialized treatment.
Tooth Fracture
A tooth can become fractured during accident or injury, or if you bite down on something that is too hard. A tooth fracture can allow food particles and bacteria to get into the tooth and cause an infection in the tooth pulp.
A fractured tooth can usually be sealed using dental glue or by restoring the tooth with a filling or a crown. Your Dentist may also recommend root canal treatment.
Bruxism
Bruxism is the unconscious clenching and grinding that often happens to patients while they sleep and can cause a number of problems including:
- Pain in the teeth, gums, and jaw
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Gum recession
- Sensitivity to temperatures and sugars
A night guard worn while you sleep is a great form of treatment for bruxism. If your nightly grinding is a result of stress, you may benefit from counseling to help you deal with your stress.
Tooth Decay
Cavities or one of the most common culprits of tooth pain! Bacteria can create a sticky plaque that hides in the nooks and crannies of your teeth which can eat away at protective tooth enamel.
To treat cavities, your dentist can remove the decay and fill the hole with tooth-colored composite bonding material. If you developed an infection, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics.
Damaged Dental Restorations
Over time, dental fillings can become damaged through normal wear and tear. Fillings and crowns can chip, crack, wear out, or even fall out. Even though crowns and veneers are fabricated using porcelain, they can still become damaged.
The best course of action with a damaged dental restoration is to simply have them replaced.
You should see your dentist immediately if you have a toothache accompanied by fever, swelling or red gums, pain that lasts longer than a day, a bad taste in your mouth, or if a tooth has become broken or fallen out.
For a toothache that is not an emergency situation, you can try some home remedies to soothe your tooth. Rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce swelling and clean areas between teeth. Ibuprofen is better than acetaminophen for dental pain so if you can take ibuprofen, it might help with pain and swelling. You may also consider using a cold compress to relieve swelling and gently flossing to remove any particles that may be stuck between your teeth.
More on Fixing Teeth : Fix Cracked Teeth