A toothache is a pain that normally occurs periodically or constantly around a tooth. It may be caused by:
- Abscessed tooth
- Tooth decay
- Tooth fracture
- Damaged tooth filling
- Infected gums
- Acid erosion
- Gingivitis
- Periodontal disease
- Cold sore
Misuse of teeth such as in opening bottle tops
When you have a tooth ache, you will experience a sharp pain in your tooth. In some people, the pain is not constant, but occurs when pressure is applied. Other symptoms include swelling around the tooth, fever and headache, and a foul tasting drainage from the infected tooth.
When Should You See a Dentist?
When you have a toothache, see a dentist as soon as possible. This allows the dentist to control further damages that may occur on your teeth. You should see a dentist immediately if you have a toothache that persists longer than a day, or the pain becomes severe even after taking painkillers. If you start experiencing a fever, pain on opening your mouth, or earache, you need to see a doctor immediately.
When the condition is not remedied, it can spread to other parts of the face including the skull and sometimes to the bloodstream.
Toothache Remedies and Procedure
When you visit a dentist, they will request for your medical history to identify the root of your toothache. The examination session involves the dentist asking questions about the pain; its severity, location, starting period, and triggers. Your mouth, jaws, tongue, gum, teeth, sinuses and throat are examined. Depending on the examination, the dentist might take X-rays.
The treatment you get will be determined by the cause. If the toothache is caused by a cavity, it will either be extracted or filled. If the problem is in the nerves, a root canal will be appropriate. In case of bacteria, an antibiotic will be administered. In cases where the tooth is swollen, phototherapy will be used to reduce the pain.
Prevent Toothache
The root of most dental problems is poor oral hygiene. By brushing teeth regularly with a toothpaste containing fluoride. You need to floss once every day and rinse at least once or twice each day with an antiseptic mouthwash. Again, you need to see a dentist at least twice a year for professional cleaning. Again, eat foods that are less in sugar. Consult with your Los Angeles dentist on fluoride applications and sealants.
Home Remedies
When you have a toothache at home, you can apply the following simple remedies to ease pain until you see a dentist:
- Use over-the-counter pain medications
- Avoid very hot or very cold foods and drinks
- Add garlic to your food every day to kill micro-organisms
- If you have jaw pains, take aspirin]
- Avoid hard and chewy food if you have a headache or pain when you open your mouth
Need Help with Toothache in Los Angeles?
Dr. Arman Torbati, a professor at USC and a prosthodontist offers dentistry services in L.A and can help you. Call 310.553.3428 and ask any question or book an appointment. Before you buy any over-the-counter drugs, call the dentist and let them advise you accordingly.