A very common evil that can be due to poor hygiene and other causes.
In addition, it can originate in the tooth itself but it can also be a consequence of conditions in other parts of the body (such as the ear). In this article we will learn about its possible causes and remedies to relieve symptoms.
- Related article: “Bleeding gums: causes, symptoms and solutions”
Toothache: when to go to the specialist?
Toothache, when it appears intensely and does not disappear with days, is a reason to go to the dentist. We should even consider going to him even if the pain goes away (with or without painkillers).
In addition, there are some signs added to toothache that may indicate greater severity , such as that the pain is very intense, that it does not subside with analgesics , that it lasts for many days, that it is accompanied by fever or earache or that increase when you open your mouth.
Knowing the causes that produce it will allow us to know the appropriate treatment for each case.
- It may interest you: “What is gingivitis? Causes, symptoms and treatment”
Causes
Toothache can appear for various reasons. The most common are the ones described below.
1. Teeth that are coming in
When a tooth breaks through the gum, as in the case of wisdom teeth, for example, this can cause toothache. It happens because there is not enough space in the mouth for it to come out or develop normally.
Specifically, wisdom teeth can cause unbearable pain in some people, and sometimes it is necessary for the dentist to proceed to remove the piece through a simple intervention.
2. Tooth decay
Another reason that can cause toothache is cavities ; in fact, it is the main cause of toothache, at least in children and adults. Cavities appear due to an excess of sugar, which allows bacteria to live in the mouth. The latter is also possible thanks to the starches in some foods we eat.
How do cavities form? The bacteria produce a series of acids that are found in the plaque and that end up perforating the outer coating of the teeth (enamel), which is hard and white. This is how cavities are created.
But how do we know we have cavities? The first sign to detect them is a sensation of pain when eating something sweet, something very cold or something very hot.
3. Food accumulation
The accumulation of food and food debris between the teeth (especially if the teeth are separated) can also cause toothache. When food remains accumulate, they gradually rot and affect the health of the teeth and gums .
4. Root inflammation
Another cause is inflammation or infection of the root of a tooth or the gums.
5. Trauma
An injury or trauma to a tooth, or even teeth grinding (or bruxism) can also cause a toothache.
6. Fracture of a tooth
Fracture of a tooth or its root can also cause toothache.
Treatments
Depending on the cause of the toothache, we must apply one or another solution or treatment. In the case of wisdom teeth, for example, the ideal is to have them removed (surgically when necessary), and if possible, that is, only if a dentist advises it.
If it is caused by cavities, it is advisable to fill them (in a dental consultation) and reduce excess sugar in our diet to prevent them from reappearing, as well as follow good oral hygiene, brushing our teeth three times a day and flossing. and mouthwash if necessary.
This cleaning will also prevent food from accumulating between the teeth, another of the most frequent causes of toothache.
In short, each specific case will need a specific action plan to solve the problem , but it will always be necessary to go to a specialized professional, in this case the dentist.
Other tips for pain relief
In addition to the treatment required for each case, there are a number of practical tips to prevent or relieve toothache in a more “home” way :
1. Rinse with water and salt
This will help clean your mouth and fight any microorganisms that may be causing the pain. It is a fast and effective way to eliminate part of the bacteria that live in our mouth.
2. Use Indian clove
It is a type of oil with analgesic and antibacterial properties that will help fight infections and relieve pain. It has antiseptic properties.
3. Use ice
An ice pack (wrapped in a cloth) can be used and placed near the painful area (for example the cheek). We can do this for 15 minutes, 3 times a day, to reduce inflammation.
4. Pain relievers
Sometimes they are the fastest way to relieve pain (as well as anti-inflammatories), although we should always go to a specialist to treat the root cause of the toothache.
Bibliographic references
- Mayo Clinic. (2018). Toothache: first aid. Patient care and health information.
- Rodriguez, O., Garcia, L., Ibis, A. and Inclán, A. (2013). Physiopathology of oral pain: an updated view of the subject. Medisan, 17(9), Santiago de Cuba.
- healthy. (2018). Toothache. Library, Dental Health.
To the classic question “what do you do?” I always answer “basically I am a psychologist”. In fact, my academic training has revolved around the psychology of development, education and community, a field of study influenced my volunteer activities, as well as my first work experiences in personal services.