What Causes a Toothache, How Does a Toothache Go Away?

What causes toothache?

Toothache can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Tooth decay: Tooth decay is the most common cause of toothache. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acid that eats away at the tooth enamel and exposes the sensitive nerves inside the tooth.

Gum disease: Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth and gums. It can cause the gums to become inflamed and swollen, which can lead to toothache.

Tooth fractures or chips: Fractured or chipped teeth can expose the sensitive nerves inside the tooth, causing pain and sensitivity.

Tooth abscess: A tooth abscess occurs when bacteria infect the soft tissue inside the tooth, causing pus to accumulate and leading to intense pain.

Impacted wisdom teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth occur when the teeth do not have enough room to grow and become trapped beneath the gums. This can cause pain and inflammation in the surrounding area.

Bruxism: Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can cause toothache by putting excessive pressure on the teeth and gums.

Dental procedures: Toothache can also be a side effect of dental procedures such as fillings, root canals, or extractions.

It is important to see a dentist if you are experiencing toothache, as they can identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. Home remedies, such as over-the-counter pain relievers and applying ice to the affected area, can help alleviate symptoms in the meantime, but should not be used as a substitute for professional dental care.

What are the ways to relieve toothache quickly?

If you are experiencing a toothache, there are a few things you can try to help alleviate the pain quickly:

Over-the-counter pain relievers: Taking pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce toothache pain. Follow the recommended dosage on the packaging and do not exceed the maximum recommended dose.

Saltwater rinse: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth for about 30 seconds. This can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

Cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain.

Garlic: Garlic has antimicrobial properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation. Crush a garlic clove and mix with salt, then apply the mixture directly to the affected tooth.

Cloves or clove oil: Cloves have natural anesthetic and antiseptic properties that can help alleviate toothache pain. Apply a small amount of clove oil or ground cloves to the affected tooth.

However, it is important to note that these home remedies are temporary solutions and do not address the underlying cause of toothache. It is important to seek professional dental care to identify and address the underlying cause of toothache.

Which pain reliever is better for toothache?

Both acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) can be effective for relieving toothache pain. However, the best option for you depends on your specific circumstances.

Acetaminophen is generally better for people who cannot take NSAIDs due to conditions like stomach ulcers, heartburn, bleeding disorders, or who take blood-thinning medications. Acetaminophen is also better for people who are allergic to NSAIDs. However, it may not be as effective as NSAIDs in reducing inflammation and swelling.

NSAIDs like ibuprofen are usually better for toothache pain that is caused by inflammation or swelling. They can also help reduce fever, which is sometimes associated with tooth infections. However, they may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health conditions like stomach ulcers, kidney problems, or heart disease.

It is important to speak with your dentist or doctor before taking any pain reliever for toothache or any other medical condition, as they can provide specific recommendations based on your medical history and current health status. Additionally, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the maximum recommended dose.