Toothache often indicates a problem with the teeth or gums, so it is important to know the main cause, as from here the best way to relieve any pain, swelling, or other symptoms can be determined.
In this article, Dr. Mohammad Nofal, specialist in dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and dental implants, presents to you the most important information that may interest you about toothache and ways to get rid of it.
Toothache and ways to get rid of it
Toothache at night can make sleeping or carrying out routine tasks extremely difficult, but do not worry, there are many treatments that may help people suffering from toothache feel comfortable and sleep.
You will find toothache and ways to get rid of it as follows:
Medical treatments
They are as follows:
Drug treatment
Over-the-counter pain relievers help relieve toothache, as they are used as a first-line treatment for toothache.
Among the most prominent examples of pain relievers are the following:
Ibuprofen.
Acetaminophen.
Aspirin.
In addition, the doctor may also recommend antibiotics if signs of infection appear, but it is worth noting that the doctor recommends these treatments for a temporary period until the main cause of the toothache is known.
Therefore, we advise you to visit the dentist and talk with them to discuss the best treatments suitable for your case.
Dental fillings
If there is small tooth decay, which is the most common cause of toothache, the doctor will likely recommend a dental filling, whereby through this procedure they remove any damaged parts of the tooth and then fill the gap with a strong dental filling material.
Dental crowns
A larger cavity or fracture in the tooth requires the installation of a dental crown, as this crown covers the tooth, which strengthens it and reduces the risk of further damage.
Root canal treatment (nerve extraction)
If bacteria infect the cavity or cracks in the tooth, the person often needs root canal treatment by removing the damaged, inflamed nerves.
After that, the doctor cleans the inner surfaces of the tooth and fills them with a filling material or places crowns to protect and strengthen the teeth.
Tooth extraction
If the tooth is severely damaged and causing toothache, the doctor may need to extract the tooth and clean any existing infection.
Home remedies
Some home remedies provide some relief from toothache. Among the most prominent of these solutions are the following:
Rinsing with salt water
Rinsing the mouth with salt water is one of the effective treatments that helps relieve toothache in addition to cleaning the teeth.
Salt water is a natural disinfectant that helps treat toothaches and gum diseases by reducing inflammation and healing any wounds in the mouth.
To use this method, mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and use it as a mouthwash.
Read also: Immediate dental implants.
Cold compresses
Cold compresses are one of the ways to get rid of toothache, in addition to helping reduce swelling.
A cold compress (ice wrapped in a cloth) can be placed on the affected side of the face or jaw and pressure applied to the area for 15 to 20 minutes, as this helps to constrict the blood vessels in the area and reduce pain.
Rinsing with mouthwash
Rinsing with a mouthwash containing hydrogen peroxide helps relieve pain and inflammation, especially after wisdom tooth removal or tooth extraction, in addition to killing bacteria and reducing the calcifications present on the teeth.
But it must be noted that the hydrogen peroxide is diluted with equal parts of water, while being careful not to swallow it when rinsing the mouth with it.
Tips to relieve toothache and prevent it
Dr. Mohammad Nofal provides you with some tips, which are as follows:
Avoid acidic or cold foods immediately before sleeping, as these foods worsen the condition of the teeth and any cavities or decay that may already exist.
Clean your teeth 2 to 3 times a day using a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
Use floss between your teeth at least once a day.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash twice a day.
Visit the doctor regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
What are the causes of toothache?
There are many causes that may lead to toothache, the most important of which are the following:
Tooth decay.
Loss of a filling.
Tooth abscesses.
Wisdom tooth removal.
Grinding the teeth at night.
Gum diseases.
Pain in the root canal.
When should you visit the doctor immediately?
Dr. Mohammad Nofal, specialist in dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and dental implants, advises you to go to him immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:
Fever.
Swelling.
Difficulty swallowing.
Difficulty breathing.
Pain when biting.
Pain that lasts for more than a day or two.
Abnormally red gums.
The appearance of foul-tasting discharge.
Frequently asked questions
How long does toothache last?
There is no way to know how long a toothache will last, because that depends on the underlying cause. In some cases the pain may disappear on its own within a day or two, and in others it may need a longer period.
Sources
- Cronkleton, E. (2023, September 13). 11 home and natural remedies for toothache pain. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/home-remedies-for-toothache#causes
- Morales-Brown, P. (2024, January 15). 9 ways to get rid of toothache at night. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326133#summary
- Sawyers, T. (2024, January 30). How to get rid of a toothache at night. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-rid-of-toothache-at-night#outlook
- Toothache home remedies. (2015, November 3). WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/home-remedies-toothache
- Professional, C. C. M. (n.d.). Toothache. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10957-toothache
- Website, N. (2023, April 14). Toothache. nhs.uk. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/toothache/
