What is a Toothache?
A toothache is pain or discomfort around a tooth, often sensitive to temperature or pressure. Stabbing pain signals possible damage or infection, usually from cavities or inflammation called pulpitis. Tooth pulp, with nerves and blood vessels, can become irritated or infected due to cavities or cracks, leading to tooth pain. Always check with doctor for unbearable tooth pain
Causes of Toothache
Tooth pain is caused by problems with the teeth or jaw. Toothache can range from moderately unpleasant to exaggeratingly painful.
- Tooth Damage: Chipped, broken teeth, damaged fillings, crowns, or implants can cause tooth pain.
- Cavities (Caries): Decay penetrates enamel and dentin, leading to tooth pain. Abscesses, infections of the tooth nerve and pulp, can cause severe pain.
- Gum Disease: Gingivitis and periodontitis can lead to gum and tooth pain due to inflammation and pockets forming around the teeth.
- Damaged or Fractured Tooth: Fractures can expose sensitive parts of the tooth, causing pain during biting or chewing.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation of sinus cavities can make upper molars tender, resembling toothache.
- Cluster Headache: Pressure from cluster headaches can cause tooth pain.
- Heart Attack: Radiating pain to the lower jaw can mimic toothache during a heart attack.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar increases cavity risk.
- Nerve Diseases: Trigeminal neuralgia causes sharp facial pain.
- Drug Abuse: Methamphetamine abuse can lead to toothache.
- Vitamin Deficiency: Low vitamin B12 levels are associated with tooth pain.
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Get A Second OpinionDiagnosis
Your dentist will work step by step to assess the source of your tooth pain, beginning with a medical background.
- Physical Examination: Checks for swelling, tenderness, and inflammation in your face, mouth, and gums.
- Dental Examination: Looks for cavities, signs of infection in your teeth.
- Imaging: Uses X-rays to identify hidden issues. CT scans or MRIs for severe cases like Ludwig's angina or cavernous sinus thrombosis.
Treatment
Treatment of toothache depends on the cause.
- Cavity Treatment: Dentist patches the cavity or extracts the tooth if it causes toothache.
- Root Canal: If infection of the tooth's nerve is the cause, a root canal may be needed.
- Antibiotics: If there's fever or mouth swelling, antibiotics may be prescribed to combat infection.
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Book an AppointmentWhen to see a Doctor?
If your toothache is severe or the result of a more serious medical condition, see your dentist so that it can be properly treated. Many toothaches will require medical attention. An over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen, may help you until you visit a dentist.
You should also consult a dentist if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- General pain lasting more than a day or two
- Swelling
- Pain when biting
- Abnormally red gums
- Bad tasting discharge or pus
Prevention
You can treat most sore throats at home. Get enough rest to give your immune system a chance to fight infection.
To get relief from sore throat
- Brush your teeth gently twice a day with a soft-bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Drink fluoridated water
- Have regular professional dental cleanings
- Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner
- Avoid smoking
- Eat a balanced and regular diet rich in fruits, vegetables, protein, and fatty fish and minimize the intake of foods or beverages rich in sugar
- Using a cold compress can help relieve toothache
- A simple saltwater rinse is a common home remedy for toothaches
- Drinking peppermint tea or sucking on peppermint tea bags can also help temporarily relieve toothache
- Garlic is a common household spice some people used to ease toothache
