At Yerba Buena Dentistry, we define a toothache as any pain in the tooth, around the tooth, or when pressure is applied to the tooth. A number of factors could cause a toothache. Some of the explanations are minor, while others are major issues that require immediate dental attention. So, how bad does your toothache have to be before you go to the dentist? At Yerba Buena Dentistry, in San Francisco, California, we want to make sure that every one of our patients understands how to handle a toothache and how to assist those experiencing one. Below are some of the most common causes of toothaches and ways to treat them.
Different Toothaches and Their Causes
Our teeth are home to a variety of blood vessels and nerves. When a tooth is damaged, whether it is a baby tooth or an adult tooth, acute sensitivity and discomfort will begin to affect your mouth. A toothache might be caused by illness, clumsiness, or poor oral care. Based on the level of discomfort you’re feeling, you’ll be able to tell if it’s an emergency. If the paint isn’t too bad, specific at-home solutions can help. Come into our office right away if the discomfort is intolerable. Some of the major causes of a toothache are:
- Tooth decay, often a result of lack of good oral hygiene
- A dental emergency, like an abscessed tooth, a broken tooth, or a knocked-out tooth
- Damaged dental work: This can occur with any patient who fiddles with different dental work done in their mouth.
- Infection from built-up bacteria and plaque
- Grinding your teeth at night or when stressed
Try some of the at-home therapies described below if the discomfort from these sorts of toothaches is minor. Call us right away if you experience gum irritation, bleeding, or severe pain in the root of your tooth. You can also lightly run your finger over the crowns of your teeth, and if you react strongly, you should come into our office right away.
At-Home Toothache Remedies
If your pain is minor, you might try one of these remedies before coming into our office.
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater: Saltwater is an antiseptic, and it will kill any bacteria in your mouth. It will also aid in loosening any stuck food or plaque between your teeth.
- If you have swelling, a cold compress will help to lessen the inflammation in your blood vessels. This can significantly improve your mood.
- Over-the-counter pain medications can be used! To help relieve discomfort, you can use any over-the-counter pain medicine. Follow the guidelines carefully and only take what you require. Tylenol and Ibuprofen are excellent choices.
- Clean your teeth using a toothbrush and floss: This may sound straightforward, but the problem could be as simple as a stray popcorn kernel.
If these at-home remedies are not working for you, or you can feel the pain increasing, please call us, and we will have you in to see the dentist right away.
At Yerba Buena Dentistry, we value each of our patients, young and old, and their dental health. Practicing good dental hygiene daily is the most efficient strategy to avoid toothache. You and your family should make every effort to practice preventative dentistry in order to avoid toothaches and other dental problems. If you live in the San Francisco, California, area and have a toothache, please give us a call. We are here to help!
