A toothache isn’t merely discomfort; it’s a signal that something isn’t quite right in or around your tooth. From mild sensitivity to excruciating throbs, toothaches vary in intensity. At Kedron Family Dental, we are fast-acting to get to the root cause of the problem and provide fast-acting relief.
What is a toothache?
A toothache refers to the pain or discomfort experienced in or around a tooth. They are typically a symptom of irritation, inflammation, or damage to the tooth’s pulp (the centre of the tooth where the nerves and blood vessels are). Toothaches can vary in intensity, ranging from mild sensitivity to severe, throbbing pain.Â
Common causes include:
- dental cavities
- gum disease
- tooth abscess
- a cracked or damaged tooth
- an impacted wisdom teeth
- a previous dental procedure.Â
You may find the pain constant or more triggered by factors like hot or cold temperatures, sweet foods, or when applying pressure (chewing).
When should I see a dentist about a toothache?
You should immediately book in to see your dentist if you are experiencing a toothache. The below oral symptoms all warrant immediate dental attention:
- persistent or severe pain
- discomfort when chewing
- swelling
- pus
- red or swollen gums
- pain radiating to the ear or jaw.Â
A toothache should not be ignored. An ongoing toothache can lead to the worsening of underlying dental issues, potentially leading to more extensive and costly treatments the longer you leave it.Â
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Can a toothache go away on its own?
While mild toothaches may sometimes go away on their own, it’s important to know that a persistent or severe toothache typically suggests an underlying dental issue that requires a dentist’s attention.
Various toothache causes such as cavities, gum disease, infection, or dental trauma are unlikely to resolve without proper treatment.
How do dentists treat toothaches?
The treatment of a toothache would depend on the underlying cause. Our dentists practise various treatments to address different dental issues contributing to pain.Â
Common treatments include:
Dental Fillings
Should the toothache stem from a cavity or dental decay, our dentist might remove the decayed part of the tooth and then fill the cavity with a dental filling.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal procedure may be recommended when the toothache is associated with infection or damage to the tooth’s pulp. This involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the inside, and sealing it to help prevent further infection.
Tooth Extraction
In cases where a tooth is too damaged and cannot be saved, our dentist may recommend an extraction to alleviate the pain and prevent the spread of infection.
Dental Crowns
For a cracked or weakened tooth, a dental crown may be placed to restore its strength and protect it from further damage.
Prescription Medications
Pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended for pain management. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to treat bacterial infections contributing to the toothache.Â
Are there home remedies for toothaches?
While there are home remedies that may offer temporary relief, it is important to consult with a dentist to identify and address the underlying cause of the toothache.
Here are 3 home remedies that may help alleviate toothache symptoms:
Saltwater Rinse
Saltwater rinses can help reduce inflammation and act as a mild antiseptic.
- Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
- Use the solution as a mouthwash and swish it around the affected area for 30 seconds before spitting the liquid out.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Hydrogen peroxide has antibacterial properties and may help reduce oral bacteria.
- Dilute hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water.
- Swish the mixture in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting the liquid out.
Ice Packs
Cold compresses can help numb the area and reduce swelling.
- Wrap a small ice pack or a bag of frozen peas in a thin cloth.
- Apply the ice pack to the outside of the cheek, near the painful tooth, for 15 minutes.
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Where to find us
Kedron Family Dental
1/138 Gympie Rd,
Kedron QLD 4031, Australia
Public Transport
The clinic is conveniently located just a 2-minute walk from Stop 25- Leckie Road on the busy 370 bus route. Free on-site parking available.