Toothache, or dental pain, is one of the most common dental emergencies and probably the most aggravating of them all.
When you have a toothache, all your other functions are affected. Eating is difficult, speaking is hampered, and in some people a dull numbing headache follows.
Over-the-counter pain relievers are a popular go-to solution when this happens. And for some time, OTC pain relievers can get you back to your normal activities.
For some people, this is enough – a quick pop of pain reliever every now and then to keep the pain at bay. But, not only does the frequent use of pain relievers pose health dangers, it also doesn’t solve the problem causing the toothache.
At Alex Bratic Dental Care, we do more than just shoo the pain away, we make sure it doesn’t bother you again. Your Beenleigh dentist can properly administer the right treatment before your toothache can cause greater problems.
What Causes A Toothache Or Dental Pain?
A toothache can be an indication of a developing dental problem. Most often toothaches are caused by poor oral hygiene. But there are other common reasons for a toothache. Let’s take a look at them.
#1 Tooth decay
What we eat affects our oral health. If you are fond of eating or drinking foods containing sugar and starches, bacteria in the mouth create acid, which attacks the tooth enamel, and in time develops into a cavity.
Enamel can repair itself with the help of minerals from saliva, and fluoride from toothpaste and other sources. Unfortunately, poor oral hygiene allows the tooth decay process to continue.
Toothache happens when you eat or drink something sweet, hot or cold, and the cavity is irritated.
#2 Abscessed Tooth
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around an infected tooth. It is another serious dental emergency and toothache is only an accompanying symptom. Abscess is often caused by severe tooth decay or infected/dead pulp.
If you notice pus where the pain originates, call your dentist immediately. An abscessed tooth doesn’t heal on its own.
#3 Damaged filling
Fillings are used to treat a number of dental issues including tooth decay. They stop the cavity from worsening and save as much natural tooth structure as possible. However when a filling is damaged, a persistent toothache is guaranteed.
#4 Tooth eruption
Children are the most vulnerable to this. An erupting permanent tooth can cause a lot of pain. However, adults can also experience this, if a wisdom tooth erupts.
#5 Bruxism
Tooth grinding not only wears your teeth down, but it can also cause pain to the jaw and your tooth.
#6 Infected gums
Accumulated plaque also attacks and irritates the gums. The infected gums cause sensitivity and pain when exposed to hot or cold drinks.
First Aid Steps
When you suffer from a toothache or dental pain, here’s what you can do:
- Clean your mouth. Gargle with lukewarm salt-water solution several times a day (1/2 teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of water).
- Use dental floss to further ensure that there are no food debris stuck/left.
- Take a pain-reliever to relive the pain. Never give an aspirin to those under 18 years old and never put aspirin directly on the gums as this will only burn them.
- Apply clove oil instead, using a clean cotton swab.
- If there is swelling, apply a cold compress on the outside cheek of the ailing tooth.
- Call the dentist right away.
Comfort, Convenience, and Excellent Emergency Care at Alex Bratic
Alex Bratic Dental Care provides families with instant, effective relief from dental emergencies. We serve patients of all ages in Beenleigh, Eagleby, Mount Warren Park, Windaroo, Waterford, Edens Landing, Holmview, Pimpama, Yatala, Bethania, Alberton, Jacobs Wel,l and Tamborine.
Call us on (07) 3287 2627 or request your emergency appointment online!