If have been having toothache for more than 2 days that persists even with painkillers or have a fever; gums appear red, swollen cheeks, there is tooth pain when you bite and/or a bad taste in your mouth, do make an appointment visit with your dentist.
If you experienced above symptoms, let’s learn more about the causes of toothaches and how to manage toothaches.
Causes of toothaches
There are many causes of toothaches, but the most common ones are
Tooth decay
When bacteria in the mouth breaks down sugars and starches, it creates acid that erodes the tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Sometimes cavities reaches tooth nerves causing toothaches.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis or dental abscess : build-up of pus in the teeth or gums caused by an infection can result in red, swollen gums and tooth pain.
Cracked teeth
Damaged and broken teeth from accident or biting something hard can expose tooth and cause pain.
Wisdom teeth
When the last molar erupts and is unable to fully emerge, it can push against adjacent tooth and cause pain and swelling.
Teeth grinding
Many people may not realize they have a habit of teeth grinding or bruxism. This can lead to tooth damage, sensitive teeth or pain in your jaw, face or ear.
Managing Toothaches while waiting for dentist visit
If you recurring tooth pain and toothaches, do not let the symptoms spread. Make an appointment to see your dentist to investigate the root cause of tooth pain. Whilst waiting for your visit, here’s what you can do:
- Pain relief medications: Painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol may temporarily help toothaches. You can consult a pharmacist for over-the-counter medications.
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Avoid sugary foods and drinks: Sugar feeds bacteria that can cause tooth decay
- Maintain good oral health: Continue to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly to prevent bacteria growth in mouth.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water: This reduces inflammation and prevents bacteria growth in mouth.
- Apply cold compress: An ice pack to the sore area reduces swelling and pain.
อย่างไรก็ตาม การรักษาที่ดีที่สุดคือการป้องกันไม่ให้เกิดอาการปวดฟันตั้งแต่แรก ด้วยการดูแลสุขภาพช่องปากอย่างสม่ำเสมอ และพบทันตแพทย์เป็นประจำ
Root canal treatment
If the cause of toothache is due to bacteria entering the pulp of the tooth that can stem from untreated tooth decay, infection, abscess, your dentist will need to clean off the infection with root canal treatment sometimes requiring medications to be placed within the root canal.
Tooth removal
If tooth is severely infected or damaged and cannot be salvaged with root canal treatment or periodontal treatment, your dentist may recommend the poor prognoses tooth to be removed and extracted.
If coming with a toothache, your dentist will typically request for an x-ray to be taken to check the source of pain. Sometimes, your dentist may first prescribe you antibiotics or pain relief medications prior to the start of any dental treatment options. The course of toothache treatment varies with your case, so please consult your dentist.
Comparison of Tooth Pain Treatment Options
Benefits of root canal treatment
- Preserves your natural tooth
Limitations of root canal treatment
- Over-time you may need root canal re-treatment if infection re-occurs. Infection can occur again from variety of reasons that may not relate to your previous session of root canal treatment
- Severe infections requires healing time and may require several visits
Benefits of tooth extraction
- Source of issue is resolved instantly
Limitations of tooth extraction
- There will be a missing tooth whereby tooth replacement is highly recommend to avoid long-term bone loss and problems associated with missing gaps
The best treatment is to prevent toothaches from occurring in the first place. You can do this by adhering to good oral health care regularly and seeing a dentist bi-annually for a professional teeth cleaning and dental checkup.
ราคา & โปรโมชั่นตรวจสุขภาพฟัน รักษาการปวดฟัน
Dental checkup & consult
Free
Teeth cleaning, scaling & polishing
900 – 1,500 .-
Root canal treatment – anterior tooth
9,000 .-
Conclusion
Toothache is something that should not be overlooked. Tooth pain may be a sign of a more serious oral health problems. Taking care of your dental health properly and regularly will help you have a beautiful healthy smile and strong teeth for eating and enjoying the foods you love.
Don’t forget that good dental health starts with yourself. Take care of your teeth today and visit your dentist for bi-annual dental checkups, so you will not have to worry about getting a toothache.
- “Causes of toothaches” | https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/toothache/