Toothache Diagnosis & Treatment
Madison, AL
 A toothache can occur due to many reasons. Some of the top causes include gum disease, root canal infections, and traumatic injuries. No matter what the cause of the toothache might be, it is a fact that toothaches can be very painful.
This is the reason why you need to get a diagnosis and treatment promptly. At Singing River Dentistry, we give priority to resolving the root cause of toothaches as opposed to just numbing the pain. Using too many over-the-counter pain reduction drugs can mislead you into thinking that the situation is resolved. For this reason, you need a diagnosis.
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What Causes Toothaches?
Toothaches can be caused by dental or non-dental issues, depending on where the problem originates. Dental causes include cavities, sensitive dentin, pulpitis, periapical abscesses, periodontitis, injuries, pericoronitis, and other dental abnormalities.
Pulpitis is one of the most common causes of toothache. It refers to the inflammation of the tooth pulp. Cavities, injuries, chemical irritation, or exposure to extreme temperatures or electrical shocks can cause this.
Dentin hypersensitivity is another significant cause, which occurs when the enamel wears away. When an abscess forms at the tip of the tooth root, it causes severe pain when the tooth is touched. Visit our page on managing tooth sensitivity to learn more about issues that may be causing pain.
The other cause of toothache is injuries. Physical injuries can crack or split a tooth, leading to intense pain. Non-dental causes of toothache include migraines, trigeminal neuralgia, myofascial pain, oral cancer, sinusitis, and temporomandibular disorders.
How To Treat Toothaches
There are many treatment options for those who suffer from toothaches. Even so, it is necessary to undergo a dental examination to know which option works best. During examination, your dentist may take a dental X-ray or conduct routine historical observation. Among the treatment options for toothache are:
Use of Antibiotics and Over The Counter Painkillers
To treat a toothache, antibiotics and painkillers may provide temporary relief. However, unless the root cause is addressed, such as an underlying infection, the pain will return. While awaiting dental care, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help reduce discomfort and sensitivity. You must see a dentist quickly if you need emergency dental care.
Dental Fillings and Crowns
When dealing with a small cavity or a minor chip in your tooth, your dentist may suggest a cavity filling. This involves removing the damaged area and replacing it with a durable filling material to restore the tooth structure. For more extensive damage, like a larger cavity or a significant fracture, a dental crown might be necessary. A crown acts as a protective cap, covering the entire tooth, enhancing its strength, and minimizing the likelihood of additional harm. This solution may be used where toothache is due to traumatic injuries.
Onlays and Inlays
In certain cases, when a cavity or crack exceeds the size suitable for a filling but is not substantial enough to require a crown, your dentist might suggest an inlay or onlay. This personalized ceramic restoration is designed to fit precisely into your tooth.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy becomes necessary when bacteria attack the pulp of your tooth due to a cavity or crack. This treatment involves the extraction of inflamed nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues from within the tooth. Following this, your dentist will carefully cleanse the internal surfaces of the tooth before filling the pulp chamber.
Tooth Extraction and Replacement
While dentists strive to preserve natural teeth whenever possible, there are circumstances where preservation is not feasible. In cases of severe damage, a tooth extraction may be necessary. In this procedure, the dentist delicately removes the tooth from its socket and clears any existing infection. Following a dental extraction, it is essential to discuss replacement alternatives with your dentist. Once the extraction site has healed, options such as a dental bridge, dental implant, or temporary tooth can be considered to restore functionality and aesthetics.
Home Remedies For Toothaches
If you experience toothache at night, consider using a home remedy. Several remedies can save you the pain. However, make sure you see a dentist as soon as possible to treat the root cause of your pain. Here are some remedies you may want to consider.
Saltwater Rinse
Mix half a teaspoon of salt into 8 ounces of warm water to create a natural disinfectant. Swishing this solution in your mouth for 30 seconds can reduce inflammation, promote mouth wound healing, and provide toothache relief from the pain.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Rinse with hydrogen peroxide to help with tooth sensitivity treatment and manage pain caused by inflammation. Hydrogen peroxide also aids in healing bleeding gums. However, it is important to dilute hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water before rinsing and ensure you spit it out afterward without swallowing.
Apply an Ice Pack
Applying ice to the affected area can constrict blood vessels, thereby reducing pain and inflammation. Wrap a bag of ice or frozen vegetables in a clean towel and hold it against the outside of your jaw for approximately 20 minutes. Repeat this process several times a day for relief. Remember, while these remedies may provide temporary relief; persistent or severe tooth pain requires professional dental treatment.
Tea Bag Compress
A tea bag compress can offer relief when you are experiencing tooth pain. Tea contains tannins, which naturally fight bacteria and reduce inflammation, both common causes of tooth discomfort. To make a tea bag compress, steep the tea bag in boiling water for 2 minutes. Let it cool down to a comfortable temperature before applying it to the affected area for 20 minutes. You can repeat this process as necessary. For extra relief, you can chill the wet tea bag in the freezer before using it.
How to Prevent Future Toothaches
One of the best ways to prevent future toothaches is maintenance. Regular dental cleaning and overall oral hygiene will help you avoid future cases of toothache. Make sure you visit a dentist at least once every six months to get proper cleaning and oral hygiene education. Further, if you already have a toothache, ensure it is well treated.
A toothache can be a source of severe pain and discomfort. The good news is that there are plenty of treatment options for toothache. When you start experiencing a toothache, get a diagnosis as soon as possible. At Singing River Dentistry, we strive hard to provide lasting solutions to toothache issues. To start your treatment journey, get in touch with us for a consultation. Call us today at 256 - 562 - 4001
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