Toothache
What Is A Toothache?
A toothache is a painful sensation that occurs in or around a tooth. The pain can range from mild to severe and can be constant or infrequent. Toothaches are a common dental problem that can affect people of all ages. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, tooth fractures, dental abscesses, and even sinus infections. Toothaches can be particularly distressing, as the pain can interfere with eating, speaking, and even sleeping. If left untreated, a toothache can worsen and lead to more serious dental problems, such as root canal treatment and tooth loss.
Before you contact a Toronto dentist to examine your toothache, there are some things you should know as a patient:
- Why Do I Have A Toothache?
- Signs And Symptoms Of A Toothache
- Treatment Options For A Toothache
- How To Prevent A Toothache
- Managing A Toothache Until You Can See The Dentist
It’s essential to seek prompt dental care if you experience tooth pain or discomfort. If you have questions about a toothache or other dental problems, please contact us for more information.
Why Do I Have A Toothache?
Toothaches can have a variety of causes, and identifying the underlying issue is essential for effective treatment. Here are some common reasons why you may be experiencing tooth pain:
- Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is a common cause of toothaches. When bacteria in your mouth break down sugars and carbohydrates, they produce acid that can erode your tooth enamel. Over time, this can lead to cavities, which can cause tooth sensitivity, dental pain, and even dental infection if left untreated.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It can be caused by plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth, which can irritate and inflame your gums. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.
- Tooth Fracture: A tooth fracture can occur due to trauma or injury to your tooth. It can also happen as a result of biting down on something hard or due to wear and tear over time. A fracture can cause sharp pain, especially when chewing or biting.
- Dental Abscess: A dental abscess is a painful infection that occurs at the root of a tooth or in the space between your teeth and gums. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and fever. If left untreated, a dental abscess can lead to serious complications.
- Dental Sinus Infection: A sinus infection can cause tooth pain and discomfort, particularly in the upper back teeth. This is because the roots of these teeth are located near the sinuses. If you have a sinus infection, you may also experience other symptoms such as congestion, headaches, and facial pain.
- Bruxism: Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a condition in which you clench or grind your teeth, often while you sleep. This can lead to tooth sensitivity and pain, as well as other dental problems over time.
If you’re experiencing a toothache, it’s important to schedule an examination with a dentist to identify the underlying cause and get the appropriate treatment. If you have further questions about a toothache, please contact us.
Signs And Symptoms Of A Toothache
Toothaches can manifest in different ways, and the symptoms you experience may depend on the underlying cause of your tooth pain. Here are some common signs and symptoms of a toothache:
- Pain or Sensitivity: Pain or sensitivity in or around a tooth is the most common symptom of a toothache. Each person’s perception of pain is different. The pain can be sharp, throbbing, or a dull ache, and may be constant or intermittent. You may also experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures or sweet foods.
- Swelling or Redness: If you have an infection, you may notice a sudden swelling or red bump in your gums or the area around your tooth. The swelling may be accompanied by pain and tenderness. Occasionally, it can form a white pimple that can burst, and when it bursts, you may feel a release of pressure and pain relief. This is a sign of a dental abscess that will recur without proper dental treatment.
- Fever or Headache: In some cases, a toothache due to some kind of bacterial infection or dental abscess may cause a fever or headache. A fever is body temperature over 38 degrees Celsius.
- Foul Taste or Bad Odor: If you have an abscess or infection, you may notice a foul taste or odor in your mouth. This is caused by the buildup of pus and bacteria.
- Difficulty Chewing or Biting: Tooth pain can make it difficult to chew or bite down on food, especially if the affected tooth is a molar or premolar.
- Pain When Tapping on the Tooth: Your dentist may perform a “percussion test” to help diagnose the cause of your toothache. This involves tapping on the affected tooth to see if it causes pain.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, it’s important to schedule a dental exam to determine the underlying cause of your tooth pain and get the appropriate treatment. If you have further questions about a toothache, please contact us.
Treatment Options For A Toothache
The treatment for a toothache will depend on the underlying cause of the pain. Here are some common treatment options for toothaches:
- Dental Filling: If tooth decay is causing the toothache, a dental filling may be necessary. The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the remaining cavity is filled with a tooth-colored material.
- Dental Crown: If a tooth is severely decayed or damaged, a dental crown may be needed to restore its shape and function. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the entire tooth and protects it from further damage.
- Root Canal Treatment: If the toothache is caused by an infection in the root of the tooth, a root canal treatment may be necessary. During this procedure, the infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed with a biologically inert filling material.
- Tooth Removal: If the tooth is too damaged to be saved, or if it is causing other dental problems, it may need to be removed. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and is relatively quick and straightforward. Missing teeth can be replaced with dental implants, dental bridges or dentures.
- Teeth Cleaning: If the toothache is caused by gum disease or other issues related to oral hygiene, a deep professional teeth cleaning may be necessary. This can help remove plaque and tartar buildup and improve overall oral health.
- Antibiotics: If the toothache is caused by a bacterial infection, a preliminary course of antibiotics may be prescribed to help fight the infection and prevent it from spreading.
- Night Guard: If the toothache is caused by grinding or clenching your teeth at night, a night guard may be recommended. This custom-fitted mouthguard can help protect your teeth from further damage and alleviate toothache pain.
The appropriate treatment for a toothache will depend on the underlying cause, and it’s important to consult with a dentist to determine the best course of action. If you have further questions about treatment options for a toothache, please contact us.
How To Prevent A Toothache
Preventing a toothache is often easier than treating one. Here are some tips to help you prevent toothaches:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay. Use fluoridated toothpaste to help strengthen your teeth.
- Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Sugary and acidic foods and drinks can contribute to tooth decay and erosion. The worst culprits include soda pop, coffee with sugar, citrus fruits and drinks, candy, dried fruits and potato chips. Limit your intake of these sugary foods and drinks, or brush your teeth after consuming them.
- Wear A Dental Night Guard: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, you are at risk of chipping or breaking teeth. Have a dentist make for you a custom-fitted night guard to protect your teeth from damage.
- Visit Your Dentist for Routine Exams and Checkups: Regular dental exams and teeth cleanings can help identify problems before they become a toothache. Your dentist can also provide preventive treatments, such as dental sealants or fluoride treatments, to help protect your teeth.
- Address Dental Problems Promptly: If you notice any signs of a dental problem, such as tooth sensitivity or dental pain, visit your dentist as soon as possible. Treating dental problems early can help prevent them from becoming a more serious toothache that would require more expensive dental treatment.
By following these tips and practicing good oral hygiene, you can help prevent toothaches and maintain healthy teeth and gums. If you have further questions about a toothache, please contact us.
Managing A Toothache Until You Can See The Dentist
Toothaches can be very painful and uncomfortable, and it’s important to get treatment as soon as possible. However, sometimes it may not be possible to see a dentist right away. Here are some tips to help you manage a toothache until you can see a dentist:
- Use Over-the-Counter Pain Medication: Over-the-counter pain medication, such as Advil (ibuprofen) or Tylenol (acetaminophen), can help relieve toothache pain and reduce inflammation. Follow the instructions on the label and do not exceed the recommended dose. Unless you have a health condition that prevents you from taking either ibuprofen or acetaminophen, the absolute maximum dose that I recommend patients take for the worst dental pain is 600 mg ibuprofen combined with 1000 mg acetaminophen every 4 to 6 hours.
- Apply a Cold Compress: Placing an ice pack or cold compress on the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Wrap the ice pack in a cloth and apply it to your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time.
- Avoid Hard, Crunchy, or Chewy Foods on the Affected Tooth: Eating hard, crunchy, or chewy foods can aggravate a toothache and cause more pain. Stick to soft foods and liquids until you can see a dentist. Also avoid eating on the affected tooth.
- Use Over-the-Counter Anesthetic Gels: Over-the-counter anesthetic gels can help numb the affected area and alleviate toothache pain. Follow the instructions on the label and apply the gel directly to the affected tooth or gum area.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Eating or drinking anything that is too hot or too cold can exacerbate toothache pain. Stick to room temperature or lukewarm foods and drinks until you can see a dentist.
- Keep the Affected Tooth As Clean As Possible: Keeping the affected tooth clean can help prevent further infection and alleviate some of the pain. Brush and floss gently around the tooth. Try using sensitivity toothpaste such as Sensodyne Rapid Relief. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water or mouthwash can help reduce infection, inflammation and alleviate toothache pain. You can buy any mouthwash available at your pharmacy or health foods store. Alternatively, you can mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
While these tips can help manage toothache pain, it’s important to schedule a dental exam as soon as possible to identify the underlying cause and get the appropriate treatment. A toothache can be a sign of a serious dental problem, and delaying treatment can lead to more pain and complications. If you have further questions about a toothache, please contact us.
