Do you have a toothache? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people suffer from toothaches every year. In fact, February 9th is National Toothache Day! This is a day dedicated to raising awareness about toothaches and helping people find relief. In this blog post, we will discuss 8 tips that can help you cope with a toothache. We hope that you find these tips helpful!

What is a Toothache?

A toothache is an aching pain felt in or around the teeth and/or gums. Toothaches can be caused by a variety of factors, including cavities, infection, damage to the enamel, gum disease, impacted wisdom tooth, and more. All of these conditions can cause severe discomfort and should be addressed as soon as possible.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of a toothache is a sharp or throbbing pain in the affected area. Other symptoms could include:

• Tooth pain that may be sharp, throbbing, or constant. In some people, pain results only when pressure is applied to the tooth (biting down on something).
• Swelling around the tooth.
• Fever or headache.
• Foul-tasting drainage from the infected tooth.
• A bad odor from the mouth.

If you experience trouble breathing and swallowing along with your pain, call a dental professional right away.

8 Tips for Coping with a Toothache

1. Take pain relief medications:

Taking over-the-counter pain relief medications can help to reduce the discomfort associated with a toothache. However, be sure to speak to your doctor before taking any medications.

2. Apply cold compress:

Applying cold packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and numbs the pain. 

3. Use a clove oil solution:

Clove oil has long been used as an effective remedy for toothaches. Mixing a few drops of clove oil with water can create a solution that should be applied directly to the affected area.

4. Rinse your mouth with salt water:

Salt water has antiseptic properties and can help reduce inflammation associated with a toothache. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a warm glass of water, swish it around in your mouth, and then spit it out.

5. Practice good oral hygiene:

Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day can help prevent toothaches from occurring in the future. Be sure to get regular checkups with your dentist as well.

6.Visit your dentist:

If your toothache persists, it is important to visit your dentist as soon as possible. The sooner you go, the better the chances of avoiding more serious complications.

What Will My Dentist Do for a Toothache?

Your dentist will evaluate your mouth to determine the cause of your toothache and then recommend a treatment plan. The type of treatment you have for toothache will depend on the cause of the pain, so your dentist will examine your mouth and may carry out an X-ray to try to identify the problem. If your toothache is due to:

• Tooth decay, your dentist will remove the decayed area and replace it with a filling.
• A loose or broken filling, we will remove the existing filling and replace it. 
• The pulp inside your tooth being infected, you may need root canal treatment. This procedure involves removing the infection and then inserting a special type of filling to seal the tooth and prevent reinfection.

Your tooth may need to be removed if the toothache can’t be treated using these methods or the tooth is wedged between another tooth and your jaw (impacted).

Prevention

The best way to prevent a toothache is by maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing your teeth and visiting the dentist regularly. Additionally, it is important to stay away from sugary foods and drinks that can lead to cavities. Finally, avoiding smoking and using smokeless tobacco products are essential for keeping your mouth healthy. 

By following these simple steps, you can reduce your chances of getting a toothache and help keep your mouth healthy. National Toothache Day is an important reminder to take care of your dental health and practice good oral hygiene habits. With the right preventive measures, you can avoid the pain associated with a toothache and enjoy a healthy, happy smile.

Make an Appointment with Mountain Aire Dentistry Today

If you are experiencing a toothache or if it is time for your next dental checkup, make an appointment with Mountain Aire Dentistry. Our team is committed to providing the highest quality of care so that our patients can achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Contact us today!