What to Watch Out for if You're Suffering From a Toothache

One of the most common causes of toothache is tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria in your mouth produce acid that eats away at your tooth enamel, causing weakness and cavities. If left untreated, the decay can spread to the tooth's pulp, causing severe pain and even infection. To prevent tooth decay, it's essential to limit sugar consumption, brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth, and visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. 

 

If your tooth is infected, the infection can spread to other areas of the body, leading to serious health complications. Signs to watch out for if you suspect that your tooth is infected are: 

 

 

If you spot any of these signs, you must see a dentist as soon as possible. We will aim to save the tooth with a special Endodontic treatment. 

 

Another potential cause of toothache is Gum Disease. This occurs when bacteria in the mouth infect and irritate the gums, causing inflammation and bleeding. Gum disease is a serious condition which can lead to tooth loss. You should brush twice daily to combat this condition. Visiting your dentist for regular check-ups to monitor the spread of potential gum disease is also essential. 

 

A toothache can also be a sign of trauma or injury to the tooth. This can result from various causes, such as a blow to the mouth, biting down on something too hard, or grinding your teeth. If you suspect your toothache is trauma-related, it's important to visit your dentist as soon as possible to determine the extent of the damage and what treatment is needed. Most of the time, tooth injuries require a filling or a crown to repair. However, there may be a risk of nerve damage or even tooth loss. 

 

Lastly, stress can play a significant role in toothaches. Stress can lead to Bruxism, which is the habit of unconsciously grinding or, often just clenching your teeth. This can cause wear and tear on your teeth and can lead to tooth pain and sensitivity. Stress can also induce tension headaches, which can cause pain in the jaw and teeth. 

 

Managing stress is essential to preventing toothaches caused by bruxism or tension headaches. Here are a few ways you can manage stress to avoid tooth pain: 

 

 

 

 

You should consult your dentist about any signs of toothache. They will be able to diagnose the cause of the pain and recommend the appropriate treatment. Treatments may include filling a cavity, performing a root canal, or extracting a damaged tooth. 

 

In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to alleviate a toothache. Firstly, take over-the-counter pain medication. Ibuprofen, for those who can safely take this, is particularly helpful when pain is linked to inflammation. For most people, Paracetamol is safe at the indicated dose but not so effective against inflammation. You can also apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek to numb the area and reduce swelling. 

 

We recommend avoiding foods and drinks high in sugar or acid, as these can aggravate the tooth and cause further pain. Additionally, it's best to avoid foods that are too hot or cold, as they can induce tooth sensitivity. 

 

If you have a fever, a swollen face or neck, or difficulty swallowing, you should seek immediate medical attention, as these are signs of a dental abscess and require prompt treatment. 

 

 

There is almost no circumstance under which you should not continue to maintain clean, hygienic teeth and gums. Continue to brush, even if this causes bleeding or discomfort. 

 

Take care of your teeth and gums, pay attention to discomfort, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. This will not only help prevent toothaches but can also help ensure overall oral health and wellness. 

 

Discover more Dental Emergency advice. If you'd like to book an appointment to see one of our dentists in Nottingham, contact us online or call our reception team on 0115 910 1447.