A toothache can strike without apparent notice, sometimes at the most inopportune times – at the beginning of the weekend or over the holidays. But no matter when that pain starts, having a toothache is no fun.

Causes of a Toothache

The most common reason for a toothache is decay, often a simple cavity, but a cavity isn’t the only reason a tooth might begin to hurt.

Tooth pain can also be due to dental pulp inflammation, an abscess, gum disease, or a cracked tooth. Any of these can irritate the nerve sufficiently to cause that ache.

Teeth that are impacted (pressing against something such as bone or another tooth) can be quite painful. Tooth sensitivity or even a sinus infection or congestion are also known to cause discomfort.

Reducing the Pain of a Toothache

If you can’t come in to see us right away there are a few things you can do to lessen dental pain until you can get in for an appointment.

  • Apply a cold compress to the cheek near the sore area
  • Use over-the-counter topical toothache relief medication
  • Rinse with warm salt water to reduce inflammation
  • If the pain is too great, and these remedies don’t do the trick, you can take an anti-inflammatory medication.

How to Prevent Future Toothaches

Some causes of a toothache, such as a sinus infection or an accident affecting the mouth, cannot be prevented – other causes can.

The good news is, there’s a lot you can do to protect your teeth from poor dental health and the pain it can cause.

  • Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste containing fluoride.
  • Floss at least once a day.
  • Cut down on sugary food and drink or quit them entirely
  • Visit the dentist regularly, so we can take care of any problems before they become a pain.

Have a Toothache? Come in and see us as Soon as Possible.

Pain is the way the body informs us there’s a problem that needs to be taken care of right away. Don’t ignore it. Schedule an appointment and come in as soon as possible before the underlying problem can get worse. The sooner the cause is discovered and resolved, the sooner the pain will be gone.

Together, we can ease the pain of a toothache and keep your teeth healthy and bright.