Toothaches

The Dental and Denture Care Center Is Your Remedy For Toothaches

When the tooth’s pulp that contains the nerve becomes irritated, the result is usually a toothache or tooth pain. Infections, trauma, gum disease or decay are most often the cause of toothaches. However, there are times when pain can occur in other areas of the body and refers to the jaw, thus creating the illusion of tooth pain. TMJ problems, tightening of the facial muscles, ear pain and even heart problems can all contribute to the appearance of a toothache. In short, when you are experiencing tooth pain, it is usually a symptom of a larger issue that needs to be addressed by your family dentist.

 What Are The Causes Of Toothaches?

A toothache originates when the pulp in the center of the tooth becomes inflamed. The pulp is where the nerve endings reside. So, the area is very sensitive to pain and inflammation. The pulp can become inflamed for a number of reasons including cavities, injury or infection. In most cases, proper oral hygeine and routine checkups can help prevent toothaches from occurring.

What Are The Symptoms Of Toothaches?

Toothaches and pain in the jaw are common complaints from many of our patients. Symptoms can range from feelings of slight pressure to severe pain, as well as sensations of hotness or coldness in the tooth. Tooth pain can persist and expand as the pain becomes more intense, often affecting the cheek, jaw or ears. Signs that you may need to seek treatment include:

• Injury
• Trauma
• Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold
• Swelling in the gums around the tooth
• Pain while chewing
• Bleeding gums or discharge around the tooth

What Is The Fastest Way To Stop Toothaches At Home?

While we do our best to schedule same day appointments in the case of emergencies, there are times when we may not be able to see a patient for 24 hours. Until you can come in for your appointment, it is important to take some measures at home to help allieviate the pain from your toothaches.

We have compiled a list of at home remedies that have proven effective. Because many of these are natural we recommend consulting with us if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or where herbal ingredients could have an effect on any other medical conditions.

• Over The Counter Pain Medication. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce the pain and swelling for hours at a time. If you take a tablet, it is important to swallow it whole. Don’t bite down as that can inflame the area and make it worse.
• Cold Compress. Place ice in a plastic bag or you can use an ice pack. Wrap it in a towel and hold against your cheek for 20 minutes where the affected area is. Repeat this process every couple of hours or so to keep the swelling down.
• Rinsing With Saltwater. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Swish the water around your mouth and spit it out. Very gently remove any particles of food around the affected area with dental floss.
• Vanilla Extract. Vanilla extract contains alcohol which can serve to numb the area of pain. Use a cotton ball to apply it to the tooth that hurts every few hours.
• Peppermint Tea Bags. Used tea bags have properties that can help reduce swelling. After steeping in hot water, let the tea bag cool til warm and then apply it to the tooth that is experiencing pain.
• Try Chewing Garlic. While not so great for your breath, garlic has many anti flamatory properties that can help with toothaches. You can try to slowly chew a clove of fresh garlic or if the tooth is too senstive, try crushing the clove into a paste and apply that around the affected area.
• Clove Oil. Clove oil can often be purchased at your local pharmacy like CVS or Walgreens. Use a cotton ball and rub the oil on the sore tooth.

When You Have Toothaches, Call The Dental And Denture Center For Relief

When pain in your tooth strikes, Dr. Juan C. Fabrega and his expert team of dental assistants will make you comfortable and get you relief as quickly as possible. Tooth pain is more than an inconvenience and we are here to help.

If you need emergency care, please call us today at (352) 848-1050 or contact us through our website here and set up an appointment today as soon as possible.