Toothache: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Toothache is a painful sensation that occurs when one or more teeth are damaged. It is one of the most common oral issues and can occur as a result of tooth decay or injury.

What Are The Symptoms of A Toothache?

A toothache can be caused by a cavity, infection, trauma, or other reasons. The major symptom of toothache is pain in or around your teeth. However, the pain can be felt in the following ways as well: 

• Pain or throbbing sensation when biting down or applying pressure to the tooth.
• Swollen lymph nodes on the side of the face.
• Swelling or inflammation of the gums.
• Bad breath.
• Fever.
• Bleeding of gums

What Causes A Toothache?

Toothache pain can range from mild to severe and may be constant or intermittent. Toothaches are usually a sign that something is wrong. When your tooth hurts, you need to see your dentist for an examination and possible treatment.

The most common cause of toothaches is cavities, which are decayed areas in a tooth. Bacteria from plaque buildup and food and drinks you eat can damage your teeth, causing those bacteria to multiply. These microscopic bacteria can eat away at your tooth’s enamel, leaving a hole or cavity.

Other causes of toothaches include

• Worn tooth enamel
• Oral cancer
• Impacted wisdom teeth
• Dental abscess
• Dental cavities
• A fractured or damaged tooth 
• Tooth abscess 
• Losing a filling
• Debris stuck in your teeth 
• Teeth grinding or clenching 
• Gum disease or gum infection 
• Sensitivity after a dental work 
• Jaw or mouth injury 
• Temporomandibular joint disorders
• Exposed root surfaces 

Toothache Remedies At Home

If you’re experiencing a toothache, it’s important to see your -Sacramento: 94203 dentists as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do at home:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to remove food debris and bacteria from the tooth surface.
• Apply a cold compress to the side of the face where the toothache is located. Apply for 10 minutes, then remove for 20 minutes, repeating this cycle until the pain is relieved.
• Avoid hot or cold foods or beverages until the source of pain is located and treated.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help relieve discomfort.

Toothache and Dental Treatment 

There are several reasons why you may experience a toothache. Your treatment for a toothache by your Carmichael: 95608 dentists will depend on its reason. If you have a cavity, they are easily treatable during its early stages with dental fillings. If cavities have progressed to become an infection, your Arden-Arcade: 95825 dentists may recommend a root canal treatment.

You may also experience a toothache from gum disease. Gum disease is a bacterial infection in your gums. A deep cleaning procedure by your North Highlands: 95660 dentists can help relieve the symptoms of gum disease. If the toothache is caused by bruxism or teeth grinding, your dentist may recommend a night guard. 

How To Prevent Toothaches?

The best way to prevent toothaches is to maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly removes bacteria and plaque buildup from the surfaces of your teeth, where it can cause the most damage. Additionally, when you come in for regular cleanings and checkups, your Citrus Heights: 95621 dentists can spot issues with your teeth and gums early, when treatment is likely to be the most effective.

Please schedule an appointment online or call the Dentist in Sacramento, CA, at (916) 481-2001 to have a consultation with Dr. Talluri. We also serve areas including Sacramento 94203, Carmichael 95608, Arden-Arcade 95825, North Highlands 95660, and Citrus Heights 95621.