Toothache is one of the most unpleasant symptoms you can experience. It can come on suddenly and can range from a slight pulling sensation to a stabbing pain that interferes with everyday life.
This blog post provides comprehensive information about possible causes, effective home remedies, medical treatments and prevention.
Possible causes of toothache
Tooth Decay (Caries)
- Tooth decay is the most common cause of tooth pain. It happens when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode tooth enamel, eventually creating cavities.
- Initially, the pain might be mild and only noticeable when eating something sweet, hot, or cold. As decay progresses, pain can become constant and more intense.
- If untreated, decay can spread to deeper layers of the tooth, affecting the dentin. It can even reach the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels.
Dental Abscess
- An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection.
- Intense, throbbing dental pain that often radiates to the jaw, neck, or ear on the affected side. It might worsen when lying down.
- Alongside severe pain, abscesses often cause swelling, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth if the abscess ruptures.
Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis)
- Gum disease starts as gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums because of plaque buildup. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where deeper tissues and bone become infected.
- Gingivitis may cause mild pain, swelling, and bleeding gums, especially when brushing. In periodontitis, pain may be more intense because of infection and receding gums exposing sensitive parts of the tooth.
- Severe periodontitis can lead to tooth loosening or loss.
Tooth Sensitivity
- Tooth sensitivity occurs when the enamel is worn down, exposing the dentin. The dentin has tiny tubules that link to the tooth’s nerve. This can cause pain when exposed to temperature changes or certain foods.
- A sharp, sudden pain in response to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic stimuli.
- Complications can arise based on enamel erosion from brushing too hard, acidic foods, teeth grinding or gum recession.
Tooth Fracture or Crack
- Teeth can crack from trauma, biting down on hard objects, or grinding. Even small cracks can expose the dentin and pulp, causing pain.
- Pain may be sharp and localized, often triggered by biting down. It may be intermittent, occurring only when pressure is applied.
- Untreated fractures can worsen, potentially leading to an infection if bacteria enter the pulp chamber.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
- Impacted wisdom teeth are those that do not have enough space to erupt normally. They can become trapped under the gum or push against neighboring teeth.
- The pain type is dull, aching pain at the back of the jaw.
- Symptoms are swelling, jaw stiffness, and difficulty opening the mouth may accompany the pain.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
- Bruxism is the habit of grinding or clenching teeth, often while sleeping. It puts stress on teeth, wearing down enamel and causing sensitivity or pain.
- Dull, constant ache, often accompanied by jaw soreness, earaches, or headaches.
- Over time, bruxism can lead to fractures, enamel erosion, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Chronic TMJ disorders can cause long-term pain and functional issues with chewing and speaking.
Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)
- Sinusitis can cause referred pain in the upper teeth, especially the molars, as the roots of these teeth are close to the sinus cavities.
- Dull, aching pain in multiple upper teeth, often accompanied by sinus pressure, congestion, and facial pain.
- Pain often worsens when leaning forward, and symptoms of a sinus infection (e.g., congestion, postnasal drip) are present.
Orthodontic Adjustments
- After braces are tightened or adjusted, pressure is applied to move teeth gradually into alignment. This causes temporary discomfort.
- The pain type is aching or tenderness in the teeth and gums, typically subsiding within a few days after the adjustment.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help ease the toothache
Immediate measures for toothache
Treatment for toothache depends on the cause. However, there are some proven immediate measures that can help relieve the toothache.
Cold can often help with toothache, especially if there is swelling. You can put a cold cloth or ice pack on your cheek for 20 minutes and help to relieve the pain.
In acute cases of severe pain, painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol may help. Ibuprofen also has an anti-inflammatory effect and can be particularly helpful for inflamed gums. However, painkillers are only a temporary relief. Therefore, you should not use them for a long time.
A saltwater rinse (1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water) will disinfect and soothe the gums. A hydrogen peroxide rinse may have the same effect. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with the saline solution for a few minutes to remove bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Chamomile or peppermint tea bags have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. You can place a cooled, moist tea bag or cotton ball directly on the affected area to help relieve pain.
Toothache remedies at home
Some home remedies can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Cloves contain eugenol, which is a natural painkiller. You can place a clove directly on the painful tooth, or dab the clove oil gently onto the area.
Garlic also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. The substance it contains, allicin, can fight bacteria and relieve pain. Onions also have antibacterial properties. Place a small piece of onion on the painful area and chew gently to release the active ingredients.
While cold often helps with swelling, heat can improve circulation and relieve muscle tension. However, cold should always be preferred for throbbing pain, as heat can increase inflammation in some cases.
Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial properties. You can use a few drops of diluted oil (mixed with water) as a rinse. But do not use tea tree oil in high concentrations or undiluted.
When should you go to the dentist?
Toothache can often be relieved with home remedies, but in many cases a visit to the dentist is unavoidable. You should see a dentist as soon as possible if:
- the pain lasts for more than two days,
- the gums are swollen,
- pus or fever occurs,
- the pain increases at night and when pressure is applied.
At the appointment with the dentist, the experts can determine the cause in more detail and initiate the right treatment. Pain is often a sign of larger problems that are difficult to solve without professional help. Home remedies cannot solve problems such as exposed tooth necks and cavities. In these cases, we strongly recommend seeing a doctor.
Conclusion
Regular dental care and a healthy diet can significantly reduce the risk of dental pain. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening. We recommend regular use of dental floss and antibacterial mouthwash.
Reduce your intake of sugar, which attacks tooth enamel. If you grind your teeth at night, you can wear a special mouth guard to protect your teeth. Your dentist can fit you with a mouthpiece to suit your individual needs.
Toothache is unpleasant and can have many causes. Home remedies like cold compresses can help ease the pain but you should only use them as an immediate solution. Persistent toothache should always be examined by a dentist as it may indicate serious dental problems.
In the long term, good oral hygiene is essential to prevent toothache. In addition to daily brushing and flossing, a low-sugar diet also helps. Regular check-ups with the dentist are also important for dental health. If you have any questions, contact our team at Cosmedica Dental dental clinic in Turkey!