What to Do When You Have Tooth Pain
If you’ve ever had a toothache, you know how painful it can be. Today on the blog, the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL, Dr. Brian Leeson discusses tooth pain relief.
Typically, a toothache or tooth pain occurs when the nerve in the root of a tooth or the area around a tooth is irritated. Dental (tooth) inflammation, rotting, fracture, or removal of a tooth are the most frequent sources of dental pain. Pain can also occur following an extraction (tooth is pulled out). Pain can originate in other places and radiate to the jaw, giving the appearance of tooth pain. Bacteria in your mouth can lead to gum disease and tooth erosion, all of which can cause discomfort. Mostly, gum disease does not cause much harm. Thus, flossing, cleaning with fluoride toothpaste, and getting your teeth professionally cleaned by your dentist twice a year will help you avoid the majority of dental issues. Sealants and fluoride can be applied by your emergency dentistry St. Petersburg, which is sometimes necessary for children’s teeth.
Toothache Causes
First off, let’s start with the basics. What causes a toothache? Toothaches are caused by inflammation of the pulp, the core part of the tooth. The pulp includes nerve endings that are very vulnerable to pain. Inflammation of the pulp, also known as pulpitis, may be caused by oral cavities, trauma, or infection. You may have toothache symptoms due to referred pain from the jaw.
Symptoms of Toothache
Is your toothache in your tooth? Is it in your jaw? Regardless, you’ll want toothache pain relief. If the pain gets more intense as the region of inflammation becomes larger, it can radiate to the cheek, lip, or jaw. As follows, other signs and symptoms that can prompt you to seek medical attention include the following:
- Chewing pain
- Exposure to heat and cold
- Bleeding or leakage from a tooth or gums
- Swelling around a tooth or in the jaw
- Injury or trauma to the area
These signs and symptoms are often associated with dental decay, tooth fracture, or gum disease (periodontal disease). Dental deterioration or a region of redness around the tooth’s gum line may indicate the cause of the pain. Messing with an infected tooth can aggravate the pain, making it essential to see your St. Petersburg FL dentist immediately. Even if the tooth looks fine, this sign may indicate a problem tooth.
A toothache must be distinguished from other causes of pain in the face. Sinusitis, ear or throat pain, or an injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jaw to the skull, can all be associated with toothache. Pressure from a deeper structure (referred pain) may travel along the nerve and be felt in the jaw or teeth.
How to Treat a Toothache at Home
If you can’t make it to our dentistry, there are a few things you can do for tooth pain relief at home. These are:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used. Take these as instructed on the box when you schedule a dental appointment.
- Avoid hot or cold foods as they can aggravate the discomfort.
- You can find comfort by chewing on a cotton ball soaked in clove oil.
Of course, we’d love to see you as soon as you experience tooth pain so that we can properly diagnose you and relieve your pain. Fillings, tooth extractions, and other procedures can be done by your St Petersburg FL dentist if needed. However, we will always try to save your tooth first. Though, if the condition is serious on permanent teeth, root canal surgery and crown operations are usually performed there is a fever or swelling of the mouth. In most cases, such operations are undertaken in steps, with pain and infection treated first and reconstructive procedures performed later (weeks to months). You will be allowed to return to work or school as you recover.
Tooth Pain Relief
Regular dental treatment can help most people prevent toothaches and serious dental issues. Preventative dentistry is key to the success of your oral health. That’s why all dentists recommend getting your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year.
Additionally, our friends over at Gentle Dental Group, the best dentist in Bethlehem GA, recommend maintaining a balanced diet. Dr. Uyen Hoang explains that bacteria feed on processed sugar which can get into the enamel on your teeth. Have an eye on what you eat and be wary of food that gets stuck on and under your teeth. They also recommend brushing immediately after breakfast.
Also, the American Dental Association recommends using a smooth toothbrush containing fluoride toothpaste. As follows, floss between the teeth on a regular basis. Additionally, using an antiseptic mouthwash on a regular basis to help eliminate bacteria that cause plaque and early gum disease.
Visit Your St. Petersburg Dentist Today
As stated above, prevention is key to oral health success. That’s why we recommend visiting us every six months for a proper cleaning to help prevent tooth infections. Ready to schedule your appointment? Contact us today!