Have you experienced tooth pain while eating? It is common but should not be taken lightly at any cost. It is a toothache that can be in or around the tooth. Minor toothaches can develop from a temporary gum irritation that can be worked on at home. However, don’t treat more severe aches on your own; you may need to visit a dentist that can help with your case. If your toothache is severe, it means the pulp nerves inside your tooth are irritated or bacteria-infected. The pulp nerves are among the most sensitive part of the body.
Some of the possible causes of toothache are:
- Tooth decay
- Broken tooth
- A bacterial infection inside the tooth
- A damaged filling
- Chewing gums, grinding, or clenching teeth can wear down the teeth
- Infected gums
- Tooth removal
When you apply some pressure on the tooth, you may experience sharp or throbbing pain. Your tooth would be swollen and may have a bad odor from the mouth. You may also experience a fever or headache. If you have pain around the tooth rather than inside, it may not require a visit to the dentist but indeed requires your attention. You may likely resolve the pain from a temporary irritation in the gum within a few days. It is best to avoid chewing food near the affected area and side. You may eat foods like eggs and yogurt, but avoid sugary, hot, and cold food if the teeth are sensitive.
Things to Try for Temporary Relief
Rinse with warm salt water – Saltwater can act as a disinfectant, prevent loose debris between your teeth, and reduce inflammation. Take half a teaspoon of salt, add to warm water, and then rinse your mouth.
Hydrogen peroxide – It helps reduce pain and inflammation. Dilute in equal parts of water and rinse your mouth.
Cold compress – You may also use a cold compress and place it for 20 minutes. Repeat after every few hours.
Medications – Over-the-counter medications can reduce pain and inflammation. Use NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Remember, if you don’t find relief from temporary solutions, you may need a dentist. You may reach out to Foothill Dental Care , and we will help you. We will perform a physical exam and check your mouth, teeth, jaws, gums, tongue, throat, sinuses, ears, nose, and neck. Then perform x-rays of your teeth to show the tooth causing the pain.