Toothache: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

A damaged tooth, bacterial infection, or a popcorn husk stuck in your gums are just a few of the causes of a toothache. Some toothaches can be brought on by temporary gum inflammation. However, serious toothaches require medical treatment.

Tooth decay, infections, loose or broken fillings, and receding gums can all cause toothaches. Using a cold compress, gargling with salt water, and sipping peppermint tea are examples of at-home treatments.

What is a toothache?

Any pain that occurs in or around your teeth is referred to as a toothache. You can manage a brief irritation of the gums at home to prevent minor toothaches. Cavities, infections, and other dental disorders that don't heal on their cause more intense toothaches. You should see a dentist in person if your toothache is really bad.

Severe tooth pain accompanied by chills and fever indicates a dental emergency. Make an immediate appointment at the closest emergency room or call a dentist. An infection in your mouth has the unusual potential to spread to other parts of your body, such as your bloodstream and brain.

Numerous types of toothaches:

Depending on the underlying cause, tooth pain can take many various forms. The symptoms of a toothache might vary, however, some examples include the following:

• A persistent, dull pain

• Sharp, stabbing pain in the teeth

• Tooth pain that throbs

• Sensitive teeth

• Swelling of the gums

• Headaches

• High temperature

• Feels cold

• Smells terrible or tastes bad

Also Read: 8 Home Remedies for a Toothache

Symptoms of toothaches:

Jaw pain and toothaches are frequent complaints. Severe pain could be brought on by pressure or by stimuli that are hot or cold. After the stimulus is withdrawn, the pain could last for more than 15 seconds. The pain intensifies in proportion to the inflammatory area. It could extend to the jaw, the ear, or the face. The following are further indications and symptoms that you should get medical attention:

• Ache in your jaw or teeth as you eat

• Headaches

• Your teeth are cold and heat-sensitive. When something hot or cold strikes them, you will experience pain for a brief period. Acidic or sweet meals may also irritate you

• Bleeding or discharge from the gums or area around a tooth

• Jaw swelling or edema surrounding a tooth

• Trauma or injury to the region

• Throat infection

• You taste something bad

• Swollen glands

Occasionally, gum disease (periodontal disease), tooth fractures, and dental decay may be connected to these symptoms and indicators. A patch of redness along the gum line or dental decay may indicate the source of the pain. Tapping an infected tooth could exacerbate the pain. 

Causes: 

Tooth discomfort can arise for a variety of reasons. The following are some potential toothache causes:

• Cavities

• Tooth abscess

• Teeth crack

• A damaged dental restoration (such as a crown or filling)

• Bruxism is the grinding or clenching of teeth

• Gum disease

How are toothaches treated by dentists?

A dentist will assess you and ask about your symptoms. To check for problems under your gums, they might also conduct a dental X-ray.

There are numerous ways to treat toothaches. The appropriate choice for you is contingent upon the severity of your situation.

Medication for toothaches:

While they temporarily relieve dental symptoms, antibiotics, and painkillers are not always effective. Antibiotics will not prevent an illness from returning; even if it does, you still need to treat the underlying cause.

To reduce pain and swelling while you wait to visit your dentist, you can use over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

Dental fillings:

If you have a minor cavity — or if a small bit of your tooth has broken off — your dentist will probably recommend a dental filling. Your tooth will be cleaned throughout this process, and any damaged portions will be filled up with a durable dental filling material.

Crowns for teeth:

An extensive cavity or break may require a dental crown. Your entire tooth is covered by this teeth-shaped "cap," which strengthens it and lowers the possibility of more damage.

Inlays or onlays:

Sometimes, a cavity or crack is too big for a filling but not large enough to warrant a crown. In certain cases, an onlay or inlay recommendation from your dentist may apply. This kind of ceramic restoration is made to fit into your teeth precisely like a small puzzle piece.

Root canal treatment:

You will require a root canal if bacteria from a cavity or crack enter your tooth pulp. During this process, inflammatory connective tissues, blood vessels, and nerves inside your tooth are removed. Your dentist will then clean the inside surfaces of your teeth and apply a filling material to the pulp chamber and root canals. Most of the time, a crown is also required for the protection and strength of your teeth.

Tooth extraction:

When possible, most dentists would rather save natural teeth. But sometimes, it’s not possible. If your tooth is seriously damaged, you may need a tooth extraction. During this process, your dentist will carefully extract your tooth from its socket and clear out any infection.

If you need a tooth extracted, talk to your dentist about replacement choices. They can replace it with a dental bridge or dental implant when your extraction has healed. In addition, they can provide you with a bridge to hold you over until your permanent replacement is placed.

 

Prevention:

Toothaches are not always preventable. They can occasionally happen for causes beyond your control.

However, there are steps you may take to lower your risk:

• Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, brush your teeth two to three times a day

• Twice daily, use an antibacterial mouthwash

• Dental degradation broken fillings

• Maintaining good oral hygiene by avoiding sugar-filled foods and beverages 

• Brushing and flossing regularly

• Avoiding habits that can cause oral issues, like smoking and getting regular exams

• See your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams

References:

• American Association of Endodontists. Tooth Pain (http://www.aae.org/patients/symptoms/tooth-pain.aspx). Accessed 4/11/2023.

• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Tooth Decay (https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/tooth-decay). Accessed 4/11/2023.

• Academy of General Dentistry. What Causes a Toothache? (http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=T&iid=337&aid=1362) Accessed 4/11/2023.