Toothache Causes & Home Remedies
A toothache is a pain in or around a tooth. Toothaches can be caused by simple issues like a popcorn kernel stuck in your gum to more serious dental problems like an abscess or broken tooth. Some tooth pains won’t get better on their own and you will need to see a dentist for treatment. If you’re suffering from a toothache, Summit Family Dentistry in Denver, NC can help!
Toothache Causes
Toothache causes—and treatment options—can vary. Depending on your symptoms, you could have one of the following issues:
- Tooth decay or untreated cavities
- A tooth abscess (a bacterial infection inside the tooth)
- Tooth crack
- Broken tooth
- Damaged filling
- Gum infection or damage
Toothache Symptoms
Toothache pain can range from mild to severe, and it may be constant or intermittent. Pain in your tooth and mouth is the primary symptom of a toothache, but the type of pain can vary from:
- Sharp, throbbing, or constant pain on or around an infected/damaged tooth
- Pain that only occurs when pressure is applied to a tooth, gums, or jaw
- Swollen or painful gums
- Bad taste in the mouth (likely from an infection in a tooth)
- Fever or headache
Home Remedies for Toothaches
If you’re hoping to minimize pain from a toothache, you can try the following home remedies. Please talk with your dentist before using any of the home remedies listed below if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any medical condition that may be impacted by herbal ingredients.
- Saltwater rinse. Use 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water then use a mouthwash.
- Apply a cold compress on/near the area of pain.
- Use over-the-counter medication such as Tylenol or Advil to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Teabags. Apply a cold or warm tea bag to your tooth—but tea can stain teeth so don’t use this method often.
When to See the Dentist
If your pain is severe or has persisted for more than a day or two, it’s time to see your dentist. They can provide guidance on how to relieve your symptoms and prevent future pain. You should also see a dentist if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- fever
- trouble swallowing
- general pain that lasts more than one or two days
- swelling
- pain when you bite or chew
- abnormally red gums
- foul-tasting discharge, or pus
If you’re experiencing tooth pain and need to see a dentist in Denver, NC, contact Summit Family Dentistry today.
