Toothache Remedies and Prevention
Toothache is a common dental issue that can be caused by various things. While some toothaches are minor and easily treated at home, more serious cases may need to be seen by a dentist for further assessment.
The first sign that you may have a toothache is feeling pain when opening or chewing. If this occurs frequently, it could indicate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues which can be treated by your dentist. Victorville Dentist Clenching or grinding your teeth may also cause jaw discomfort which needs to be addressed by a dental professional.
One of the leading causes of toothaches is injury or trauma to gum disease. But these issues can be avoided with good oral hygiene practices.
If you have a toothache caused by an injury, such as breaking or knocking out one, it is imperative to see your dentist right away. They can treat the issue by repairing damaged roots or restoring missing teeth.
Your dentist will take X-rays of your mouth to identify the issue and pinpoint what is causing the pain. They then suggest a course of treatment to relieve your toothache and prevent future injuries from happening.
Some toothaches can be relieved with over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Taking these can help ease the discomfort until you can make an appointment with your dentist to have your tooth fixed.
Another OTC remedy for pain and inflammation is applying cold compresses. You can either wrap a towel in ice or use an insulated ziplock bag filled with frozen ice cubes to apply directly onto the painful area. Cold will reduce swelling, ease discomfort and provide temporary comfort.
Other remedies you can try at home include rinsing with salt water, which helps loosen debris and eliminate harmful bacteria that cause tooth decay. Alternatively, applying ground cloves or whole cloves directly on the affected tooth can provide comfort by relieving pain and decreasing inflammation.
To prevent toothaches, be sure to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Doing so can help you avoid cavities and periodontal disease – two major causes of dental pain.
Additionally, you should try to limit the intake of acidic, cold, hot and hard foods that can irritate your teeth. These substances may increase the likelihood of developing gum disease which could result in toothaches.
Treating tooth pain with a pressure point or applying an ice pack can be effective solutions. Simply press a spot on the lower edge of your cheekbone parallel to your nose with both thumbs for about one minute to feel some relief.
Rinsing with hydrogen peroxide, which kills bacteria and reduces bleeding gums, may be effective if your toothache is due to gingivitis or periodontitis. You could also try oil pulling, which involves swishing a cotton ball in an effective mixture of clove oil and warm water.