Toothache is a pain that can range from mild to severe, occurring in or around a tooth. Since the cause of the developing pain may stem from various reasons, it is important to have it checked by a specialist dentist without delay.
Toothache can be caused by cavities, infections, gum diseases, trauma, cracked teeth, poorly done fillings or root canals, and joint disorders. There are also cases where external problems manifest as pain within the mouth. Heart problems can cause pain in the teeth and jaws. Sinus issues can be felt in the upper jaw teeth. During pregnancy, when hormone levels change, gum diseases can become more bothersome.
What Helps Relieve Toothache?
If the toothache is due to inflammation, applying ice or cold packs can reduce the pain. Clove oil, with its antiseptic and sedative properties, is an effective natural remedy for alleviating pain. It can be used by adding a few drops to a glass of water and rinsing the mouth or applying it to a cotton ball and biting down on it. Mouth rinses can also be used, but these are only temporary solutions until you see a doctor. The inflammation and pain will not completely subside until the underlying problem is resolved.
Sometimes, toothache can arise from very simple problems, such as food particles getting stuck between the teeth and causing pressure on the gums. Brushing the teeth, using dental floss, or interdental brushes can easily solve the problem. Mild irritation of the gums can be reduced with saltwater rinses.
In cases where the toothache is severe, the infection has likely spread to the tooth’s nerves. This situation may require root canal treatment to remove the nerves or tooth extraction. It is not possible to eliminate the problem without intervening in the tooth or the issue. Avoiding treatment by merely suppressing the pain with antibiotics and painkillers will only cause the problem to worsen.
It is not correct to apply aspirin, alcohol, or similar substances to the tooth to relieve toothache. The acid in aspirin can irritate the gums and increase the pain. Similarly, using alcohol does not provide any benefit.
Why Does Toothache Get Worse at Night?
When lying down at night, the increased blood flow to the head can make the pain more noticeable. The pain can be severe and throbbing. Such pain is often due to a tooth that requires root canal treatment or extraction.
People who grind or clench their teeth at night may wake up with pain and tension in their joints and chewing muscles. This is usually due to emotional stress or bite problems. A night guard can be used to help the person relax and prevent damage to the teeth. In some cases, Botox treatments can be beneficial.
To avoid nighttime toothache caused by food particles, it is recommended to brush and floss your teeth before bed.
Toothache in Babies and Children
Babies may experience pain from time to time during the long process of teething. This pain, although usually not very severe, can still disturb the baby. Symptoms may include sleeplessness, decreased desire to suck, loss of appetite, increased drooling, a desire to bite, fever, and swollen gums. In such cases, it is helpful to take them to the doctor to rule out other possible causes. If it is determined that the pain is due to teething, massaging the gums or using gels can be beneficial.
In children, the most common cause of toothache is cavities. Excessive consumption of junk food and inadequate oral hygiene can lead to this issue. The thin enamel of milk teeth allows cavities to spread quickly to other tissues, increasing the risk of infection. It is advisable to visit a dentist without delay.
