Your toothache is like a text message or phone call. Your mouth is sending a signal to your brain that the pain is an indication of something wrong. Your dentist is calling to schedule an appointment. Problem is, once your message has been received and your appointment is booked, there is no way to go back. There are some ways to temporarily silence those messages. We can help you relieve your pain temporarily if you have a toothache.
What are the Common Causes of Toothaches
- Cavities
Your mouth is home to bacteria that eat sugar and food, which in turn produces tooth enamel-attacking acids. Tooth decay can occur when these acids attack your teeth over time. Tooth decay can lead to painful toothaches. - Infection
You may be experiencing prolonged throbbing or an abscess (a buildup of pus due to a bacterial infection) within your teeth or gums. - Gum Disease
The Journal of Dental Research shows that nearly half of all adults over 30 have some type of gum disease. If left untreated, early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), can lead to periodontitis. Both can cause toothaches. The latter can lead to your teeth falling out or loosening. - Fracture
Toothaches can be caused by pressure from tooth grinding, hard food chewing, or biting, as well as hard impacts from injuries. - Broken or Loose Filling
You may feel sensitivity in areas where you have had fillings.
Toothaches can also be caused by things unrelated to hygiene and oral care, like sinus pressure and heart attacks. Most toothache problems can be prevented by good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist.
Over the-the-Counter Toothache Relief
You can take over-the-counter medication for toothache while you wait for professional treatment, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
- Benzocaine
This topical anesthetic can be applied to your gums and teeth. It can reduce toothache pain and numb the area. Important Note: According to the American Dental Association HTML, benzocaine should never be given to children younger than 2. - Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen’s pain-relieving qualities are a great first line of defense, until you see your dentist for treatment and diagnosis. Acetaminophen does not treat inflammation. You may prefer to use a non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), if you are experiencing redness, swelling, or a heat sensation. - NSAIDs
Aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that can be used to reduce the pain associated with a cavity. They can reduce inflammation from gum disease, abscessed tooth, and sinusitis. You should not use NSAIDs for longer than 10 days without consulting your doctor.
Home Remedies to Treat Oral Pain
You can also try home remedies to reduce pain and symptoms until your dentist visits.
- Salt Water Rinse
Saltwater is well-known for its natural healing properties. It can be used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, fight bacteria, and even help with tooth decay. To a cup of warm, add a few teaspoons of salt. After you have swung the mixture around in your mouth, it is time to spit it out. - Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
A hydrogen peroxide rinse, which is similar to saltwater, can reduce pain and swelling in the mouth. It can be used to kill bacteria, reduce plaque, or heal bleeding gums. Mix 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with equal amounts of water to prepare the solution. You can use it to swish around your mouth but not swallow it. Hydrogen peroxide mouthrinses are also available over-the-counter if you don’t like DIY (do it yourself).
These suggestions should provide temporary relief while you wait to see your dentist. They will examine you and determine the cause of your pain.