When toothache strikes
Sensitive Teeth
If you are experiencing sharp pains when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, it could be caused by a cavity. It may also be a sign that you may have sensitive teeth. It is always best to consult your dentist about sensitive teeth. However what is immediately available is soft-bristled brushes and specialist toothpaste such as Aloe Vera.
Sharp and Prolonged Pain
Toothaches can be extremely painful and usually get worse the longer you go without seeking treatment. Many people may fear the idea of having to have a tooth removed, but in many cases such action is not necessary. The sooner the cause of toothache is diagnosed the sooner it will get better.
Take Action
If your tooth has been sore for more than two days you should book to see a dentist immediately. The cause of the pain may be from tooth decay. When tooth decay penetrates the outer enamel of the tooth and reaches the nerves inside the tooth it will slowly kill them off. This attack on sensitive nerves can cause immense pain and hence the toothache.
Dawood & Tanner’s clinicians become aware of phobias and we use relaxation techniques and re-assurance to make your visit as comfortable as possible.
The Best Advice
The best advice in all scenarios involving toothache will come from a qualified dentist. The dentist can do a dental examination and will check for redness and swelling around the affected area. An X-ray will show whether or not there is any evidence of decay within the tooth itself, or if other factors such as gum disease are at play.
Your dentist may prescribe pain killers and or antibiotics. In some cases a root canal procedure may be necessary to remove an infected tooth and prevent infection spreading.
Temporary Pain Relief
If you are not able to see a dentist straight-away you can do any of the following to temporarily relieve pain:
- Over the counter pain killers such as paracetamol (always read the instructions).
- Rinse your tooth with water that has some sea salt mixed in. You can spit it out afterwards.
- Practise good dental hygiene, brushing twice a day and flossing once a day.
- Use soft-bristled brushes and sensitive teeth toothpaste.
- An ice bag applied to the outside of the mouth centred on the pain can also help relieve pain.