Apr 2, 2020
A toothache can be one of the most unpleasant experiences. Whether it's a dull, throbbing pain or a sharp, shooting sensation, a toothache can disrupt your daily life and leave you wondering what to do next. If you're experiencing tooth pain, it's important to take action right away to address the issue. As your trusted Salisbury dentist, Gentle Dental is here to help guide you through what steps to take and when to seek professional care.
Common Causes of Toothache
Before diving into solutions, it’s helpful to understand the potential causes of your toothache. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Tooth decay: A cavity or an untreated dental issue can cause pain.
- Gum infection: Infections in the gums can lead to swelling and discomfort.
- Abscessed tooth: A serious infection at the root of the tooth can cause sharp, throbbing pain.
- Dental trauma: An injury or chip in the tooth can cause pain.
- Teeth grinding: Habitual grinding or clenching can strain teeth and gums, causing discomfort.
Steps to Take When You Have Toothache
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Rinse with Warm Salt Water A simple solution of warm salt water can help soothe gum irritation and clear out debris from between your teeth. This can also reduce swelling and inflammation around the affected area.
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Apply a Cold Compress A cold compress applied to the outside of your cheek near the painful area can reduce swelling and numb the pain. Do not apply ice directly to the tooth or gums, as this may worsen discomfort.
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Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help temporarily relieve tooth pain. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums or tooth, as this can cause irritation.
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Avoid Certain Foods Until you can see us, try to avoid very hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks, as they can exacerbate the pain. Opt for soft, room-temperature foods to reduce irritation.
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Floss Gently Sometimes, food particles stuck between your teeth can cause discomfort. Gentle flossing can help remove any debris without irritating the affected area further.
When to See a Dentist for Toothache
While the above methods can provide temporary relief, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible if the pain persists. Here are some signs that you should seek professional care immediately:
- Severe pain: Intense or persistent pain that lasts more than a day.
- Swelling or fever: This could indicate an infection that requires immediate attention.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing: These symptoms may suggest a serious infection or abscess.
- Pain after injury: If your tooth pain is due to an accident or trauma, it’s crucial to see a dentist right away.
At Gentle Dental, our team is experienced in diagnosing and treating all types of toothache. Whether you need a filling, root canal, or just a thorough cleaning, we offer the care and attention you need to feel better.
Why Choose Gentle Dental for Toothache Relief?
When it comes to tooth pain, we're a trusted Salisbury dentist and provide compassionate, professional care. We offer:
- Same-day emergency appointments for urgent dental issues.
- Comprehensive treatment options to address the root cause of your toothache.
- A comfortable, welcoming environment for all of our patients.
If you're experiencing a toothache and need fast, effective relief, contact Gentle Dental today to schedule an appointment with our expert team.
Contact us to book an appointment with your trusted Salisbury dentist.