Toothache

Toothache usually refers to pain around the teeth or jaws. In most instances, toothaches are caused by tooth or jaw problems, such as a dental cavity, a cracked tooth, an exposed tooth root, gum disease, disease of the jaw joint (temporo- mandibular joint), or spasms of the muscles used for chewing. The severity of a toothache can range from chronic and mild to sharp and excruciating. The pain may be aggravated by chewing or by cold or heat. A thorough oral examination, which includes dental x-rays, can help determine the cause, whether the toothache is coming from a tooth or jaw problem..

causes

• Dental decay.
• A fracture of the tooth.
• A cracked tooth. This may be invisible and so can be difficult to diagnose.
• Irritation of the pulp following dental treatment. Regardless of how well it is done, dental treatment and the materials used to fill the tooth can sometimes cause pain later.
• An exposed tooth root, which can occur if the gums recede or are damaged by over-vigorous brushing.

Prevention

• avoid hot, cold or sweet stimuli. This will help prevent pain from pulpitis.
• if the pain is prolonged and severe, painkillers such as ibuprofen (eg Nurofen) may provide some relief. Remember even if the pain goes away, without treatment it will eventually become worse.
• if the pain is caused by exposed root surfaces, toothpaste for sensitive teeth, either used normally or rubbed onto the exposed root, may be helpful.
• a hot saltwater mouthwash (a teaspoon of salt to a cup of water) used to thoroughly rinse the painful area may help if the problem is caused by a tooth erupting.
• a saltwater mouthwash can also prevent infection if you have mouth ulcers.
• visit your dentist as soon as possible. This way any treatment will be simple.

Toothache - how to reduce toothache.....