Toothache is a prevalent health issue affecting millions of people worldwide. This article provides a comprehensive understanding of toothache, exploring its diverse symptoms, available toothache treatment options, and home remedies for toothache prevention.
Toothaches are no fun! Every now and then, we get the kind of pain in our teeth that sends us howling to the dentist. It is something we have no control over, as most of the time it can be evaded with a little care for our teeth. A toothache is a pain felt in and around the tooth caused by tooth decay, a tooth abscess, infected gums, or damaged fillings. It occurs when microorganisms survive on the food that an individual eats. This tooth or teeth pain is often a constant throbbing and may be triggered by food or drink. World Toothache Day is celebrated on 9th February. This day is celebrated to spread awareness and knowledge about toothaches. This not only raises awareness of toothache but also encourages its prevention, detection, and treatment. Here, we discuss the various symptoms, treatments, and prevention of toothache.
Signs and Symptoms:
It is not very hard to identify the symptoms of a toothache. It usually occurs as a constant, throbbing or sharp pain in the tooth. Swelling around the tooth is also very common. Sometimes it is also accompanied by a headache or a fever. If you suffer from an infection, you may see a secretion of foul-tasting drainage from that tooth. If it lasts only a few hours and then fades, you may be able to decide when you want to see a dentist. However, if the toothache is severe and lasts longer than 1 or 2 days, you must visit the dentist. Another common symptom during a toothache is the onset of fever, earache, or pain when opening the mouth wide. It is important to be aware and conduct a quick self-analysis, as it may help identify an infection and prevent its spread to other parts of the face and skull, and, in the worst case, even to the bloodstream.
Can a toothache go away without treatment?
Well, yes, a mild toothache can occur due to temporary irritation, such as a lodged food particle or gum irritation, which may go away on its own. One can help reduce further pain by improving oral hygiene, avoiding extreme-temperature foods, and not chewing the treated area. If it occurs due to an infection, a cracked tooth, or a cavity, it is likely to persist and worsen until it receives medical attention.
Treatment options
Toothache treatment depends entirely upon the cause. If the problem is a cavity, the dentist will fill it; if needed, the dentist will extract the tooth. If there is an infection in the tooth’s nerve, a root canal may be necessary. These infections are caused mainly by bacteria that have entered deep into the inner aspects of the tooth. Phototherapy with a cold laser is used to minimize the pain. After treatment, an antibiotic or other readily available medication may be prescribed
Non-opioid analgesics
The class of medications include acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications are trusted for relieving mild to moderate pain and are among the most frequently recommended analgesics by dentists. Acetaminophen is helpful in temporarily relieving mild to moderate pain and fever. According to the American Dental Association, NSAIDs are considered more effective than other options for reducing toothache. They are considered the first-line treatment for treating dental pain. These drugs usually work by blocking the action of certain enzymes to treat pain and inflammation. Examples of NSAIDs include Ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, and diclofenac.
Opioid analgesics
These belong to a class of painkillers that can reduce pain by adhering to opioid receptors. When this happens, opioids block the transmission of the body’s pain messages through the spinal cord. Toothache is often the reason for an individual’s first encounter with opioids. These medications help relieve pain and are generally considered safe when used for a short period under medical guidance. Examples include Codeine, hydrocodone, oxycodone, and morphine.
Antibiotics
If a bacterial infection causes a toothache, a course of antibiotics is recommended to clear the infection. Some commonly prescribed antibiotics include clindamycin, amoxicillin, doxycycline and azithromycin. Some dental issues where antibiotics may be used are:
Dental infections: If the dental discomfort is due to a bacterial infection, such as a dental abscess, antibiotics may be recommended. Dental abscesses develop as pockets of pus that can appear at the root of a tooth or between the tooth and the gum. Antibiotic medicines can help control the infection and prevent it from spreading, but they are usually combined with dental treatment such as a root canal or tooth extraction.
Pre- or post-dental procedures: Antibiotics can be prescribed before certain dental procedures, such as extractions or surgery. These can also be given after surgery in cases where there is an increased risk of infection due to the patient’s medical history or the procedure’s complexity.
Gum disease: Those dealing with advanced gum disease, such as periodontitis, may receive antibiotics in combination with dental treatment to help control inflammation and progression of the condition. They are often used in combination with treatments like scaling and deep cleaning.
Herbal methods
Prevention strategies and home treatment for toothache
Following good hygiene practices, brushing regularly, flossing once a day and visiting a dentist now and then are some of the basic but forgotten aspects of daily routine. For optimal protection, follow a low-sugar diet that will not only benefit your teeth but also your health. Cold or hot foods should be avoided at all costs as they only provoke the pain.
Are any natural remedy for toothache available?
Well, several home remedies for toothache can help. Some of them include:
Clove oil: An extremely effective home treatment for toothache. Oil of Cloves is a massive pain reliever. You may bite on some cotton wool soaked in clove oil. Oil of cloves is available at most pharmacies.
Tea tree oil: A remedy for toothache with antibacterial properties that help to fight off infections. As with any other essential oil, dilute a few drops in a carrier oil, then apply to the affected area.
Ginger: One of the common toothache treatments that works well to reduce pain. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger help reduce pain. Chew a piece of ginger root or make a ginger tea by steeping sliced or crushed ginger in hot water.
Peppermint oil: It has a cooling effect that may help relieve pain and inflammation associated with dental problems. Put a few drops of coconut oil on the affected area and rub it in.
Turmeric paste: A remedy for toothache widely used by a wide range of the population. Turmeric contains curcumin, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Mix an adequate amount of water with turmeric powder to make a paste, then apply it to the affected area.
Takeaway!
Teeth are the most taken-for-granted part of our body. It is cared for only when we suffer from a massive pain attack, and we realize that our teeth need much more care. It is never too late to start caring for your teeth. Consult a doctor if you have a specific dental problem.
