Toothaches can be a real headache, literally and figuratively. As soon as you start experiencing a toothache, it’s important to figure out what’s going on. A toothache is a sign that something is wrong, and in some cases, can cause serious complications that require immediate medical attention. However, there are some home remedies for toothache that you can try to ease the pain until you get to a dentist.
What Can Cause A Toothache?
Toothaches are generally caused by cavities or tooth decay. Each tooth is covered with a resilient coating of tooth enamel, which is strong enough to resist the mechanical motions of biting and chewing. It’s also good at fending off bacteria that are always ready to infiltrate soft tissue and cause infection.
However, if the outermost layer of enamel wears off, the delicate pulp of the tooth becomes exposed. This pulp is full of nerves and blood vessels, and any irritation or infection can cause a toothache. This is your body letting you know that something is wrong.
Ultimately, the best thing to do is to visit a dentist right away since it’s hard to determine the exact cause of a toothache without having a professional look into it. However, in the meantime, there are some things you can do at home to help soothe the pain and reduce discomfort.
4 Effective Home Remedies for Toothache
- Use a saltwater rinse. Take a pinch of salt and mix it in warm water. Use this solution to rinse your mouth. It might seem simple, but there is ample evidence to suggest that salt water effectively reduces swelling and inflammation. When you swish with saltwater, it also acts as a mild anti-bacterial agent and cleans your mouth of any food debris and bacteria. Rinsing after meals multiple times a day is a good bet.
- Perform a cold compress. If your toothache hurts constantly, you might also be experiencing swelling. Wrap an ice cube or ice pack in a paper towel or clean cloth and apply it directly to the area that hurts for about fifteen minutes. Performing cold compresses can help reduce swelling and pain in the area.
- Apply numbing gel. Anesthetic ointments, creams, or gels such as Orajel are available over-the-counter at your local pharmacy. They numb the area onto which they’re applied and help soothe and relieve pain. If your toothache doesn’t let you sleep at night, this is a good solution. Anesthetic mouthwashes are also available, which you can incorporate into your oral hygiene routine.
- Take anti-inflammatory medication. Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) is available over-the-counter and can effectively reduce inflammation and swelling.
In addition to following these tips, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene to reduce the chances of infection. Brush twice a day and use fluoride toothpaste to do so. Plus, avoid acidic, spicy, or too hot or cold foods, as these can make the toothache worse.
Conclusion: If Your Toothache Doesn’t Go Away
Remember, all of these tips are only stopgaps to help you manage the pain until you can get to a dentist. If your toothache is unbearable, you should visit a dentist immediately. Any tooth pain is a sign of a serious condition that requires prompt treatment.
Pasadena Dental Doc offers state-of-the-art dental care with fair, transparent prices. We specialize in a wide variety of dental procedures. We also have flexible office hours and accept most insurance plans. For any questions or to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to call us at (713) 947-0293. We pride ourselves on being the best dentist in Pasadena, TX.
BY GARGLE