Toothache can be one of the most uncomfortable and annoying conditions to deal with, especially when you don’t know what’s causing it or how to alleviate its symptoms. When you first start to feel the effects of mild to severe tooth pain, you might choose to ignore it and hope it goes away on its own. However, ignoring a toothache can sometimes lead to more serious dental issues or underlying health problems. Understanding the causes, symptoms and available remedies for toothaches is therefore critical to managing the pain effectively and preventing further complications.
Causes of severe toothache
Toothache can arise for a variety of reasons, and understanding the root cause of your pain is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment. It’s important to identify whether the pain is caused by something minor, such as sensitivity, or something more serious that may require dental intervention.
Cavities and Tooth Decay
One of the most common causes of toothache is tooth decay. Cavities form when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that eat away at the tooth enamel. This can lead to discomfort, especially when the decay reaches deeper layers of the tooth. If you are experiencing pain while eating or drinking, it’s possible that a cavity is to blame. The treatment for cavities typically involves a filling or, in more severe cases, a crown.
Gum Disease
Gum disease (or periodontal disease) occurs when plaque builds up along the gum line, leading to infection and inflammation. It often starts with symptoms such as bleeding gums or mild discomfort but can progress to more severe pain and tooth loss if left untreated. If gum disease is identified early, treatments such as scaling and root planing can help to reverse the damage and prevent further complications.
Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess is an infection at the root of the tooth, typically caused by untreated cavities or a cracked tooth. This type of infection can result in intense pain, swelling, and a fever. It requires immediate dental care, such as a root canal or, in extreme cases, tooth extraction.
Cracked or Damaged Teeth
A cracked or broken tooth can also lead to significant pain, especially when chewing or when exposed to hot or cold foods. If you have recently experienced trauma to the mouth, such as a fall or an accident, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the crack, treatments may range from bonding or crowns to a root canal if the damage extends into the tooth’s nerve.
Symptoms of Toothache
Not all tooth pain is the same, and it’s important to recognise when the pain is more than just a temporary discomfort. Some common symptoms that should prompt you to contact a dentist include:
- Persistent or severe pain, especially if it lasts more than a couple of days.
- Pain when biting or chewing, indicating that the tooth might be damaged.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the stimulus has been removed.
- Swelling around the tooth or gums, which could indicate an infection.
- A foul taste in your mouth or pus, which may suggest an abscess or serious infection.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek professional care. Timely intervention can often prevent more serious issues from developing.
At-Home Remedies for Toothache
While you await a dental appointment, there are some ways to manage the pain at home to make yourself more comfortable. However, these should only be seen as temporary solutions, not substitutes for professional care.
- Saltwater rinse: Swishing warm salt water around your mouth can help to clean the affected area and reduce inflammation.
- Flossing: If your toothache is being caused by lodged food, dental floss will help dislodge the problem and relieve pain.
- Cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the painful tooth can numb the area and reduce swelling.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription painkillers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help to manage the pain until you can see a dentist. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Clove oil: Clove oil has natural analgesic properties and can be applied to the affected area to provide temporary numbing relief.
Professional Treatments for Toothache
While at-home remedies can be helpful for temporary relief, they are not a long-term solution. Professional treatment is often necessary to resolve the underlying cause of the toothache. Depending on the cause and severity of your condition, your dentist will recommend the appropriate treatment.
Fillings and Crowns
If the cause of the pain is a cavity, your dentist may recommend a dental filling to restore the tooth. In cases where the cavity is extensive or the tooth has weakened, a crown may be necessary to protect and strengthen the tooth. Crowns are typically made from durable materials such as porcelain or metal and are customised to fit your tooth.
Root Canal Treatment
When a tooth’s pulp (the innermost part of the tooth) becomes infected and causes immense tooth pain, a root canal is often required to save the tooth. This procedure involves removing the infected tissue, cleaning the area, and sealing the tooth. While the procedure has a reputation for being painful, modern techniques and anaesthesia make it relatively comfortable, and it is often the best option to save a tooth from extraction.
Tooth Extraction
In some cases, when a tooth is too damaged to be repaired, or if there is an abscess that cannot be treated effectively, the only option may be a tooth extraction. While this can sound daunting, modern anaesthetics and dental training ensure that the procedure is as pain-free as possible. After the extraction, your dentist will discuss replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges, to restore the function and appearance of your smile.
Gum Disease Treatments
If your toothache is caused by gum disease, your dentist may recommend appropriate gum disease treatments such as scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline. In more advanced cases, surgical procedures may be required to restore the health of the gums and teeth.
Get in Contact with a Dentist Near You
Toothache can signal various dental issues, from cavities to infections, and requires professional care to prevent further complications. So if you’re experiencing tooth pain, don’t wait – Grosvenor Dental Practice is here to help. Contact us today to book an appointment and get the relief you need. Let us help you restore your smile and maintain good oral health.