Toothache: Remedies, Causes, Medicine, Treatment

Dr Abi
Mar 17, 2023
7 min read

Updated: Apr 25, 2023

What is toothache?

Toothache is a common dental problem that is characterized by pain or discomfort in or around a tooth. The pain can be mild, moderate, or severe. The pain may be sharp, dull, or throbbing, and may be constant or intermittent. A toothache can be life-threatening if not treated on time.

Treatment for toothache typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the pain, which may include restorative dental procedures such as fillings, root canal treatment, or tooth extraction.

Pain relief can also be achieved through over-the-counter pain medications or prescription medications prescribed by a dentist.

Lady applying cold pack in severe tooth pain as toothache remedies

Causes of toothache

Toothache can have various causes, including:

1. Tooth decay: When bacteria in the mouth break down sugars and starches, they produce acids that can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities that can cause toothache.

2. Gum disease: The inflammation and infection of gums caused by bacterial infection can result in toothache, especially if it is left untreated for an extended period.

3. Tooth abscess: A bacterial infection that can occur inside the tooth or in the gums around the root of the tooth. Pus in the tooth or in the gums can lead to pain, swelling, and sensitivity.

4. Dental trauma: An injury to the tooth or mouth can cause toothache, especially if it causes damage to the tooth's nerve or root.

5. Tooth grinding: Grinding or clenching of teeth can cause toothache or tooth sensitivity due to excessive pressure on the tooth enamel.

6. Impacted wisdom teeth: When wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge, they can cause pain and inflammation, leading to toothache.

7. Dental procedures: Sometimes, dental procedures like fillings, root canals, and extractions can cause toothache, especially if there are complications during the procedure or if the tooth has been damaged.

8. Sinus infections: Inflammation and congestion of the sinuses can cause toothache, especially in the upper teeth.

It is important to see a dentist if you experience a toothache as early intervention can prevent further complications.

Signs and symptoms of toothache

The signs and symptoms of a toothache can vary depending on the underlying cause of the pain, but common signs and symptoms of toothache include:

1. Pain: The most common symptom of toothache is a pain in or around the affected tooth. The pain may be sharp, dull, or throbbing, and may be constant or intermittent.

2. Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, sweet or acidic foods, or pressure may be a sign of tooth decay or other dental problems.

3. Swelling: Swelling around the affected tooth or in the gums may indicate an infection or abscess.

4. Redness: Redness and inflammation in the gums around the affected tooth may be a sign of gum disease or other dental problems.

5. Bad taste or odor: A bad taste or odor in the mouth may indicate an infection or abscess in the affected tooth.

6. Difficulty eating or drinking: Toothache can make it difficult to eat or drink, especially if the pain is severe.

7. Fever: A fever may be a sign of infection, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like swelling or pus.

If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause of the toothache and prevent further complications because a toothache can be life-threatening if not treated on time.

What to do when you have toothpain?

If you have a toothache, the first thing to do is to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. While you wait for your appointment, you can try the following:

1. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce swelling and subsides pain.

Use dental floss to remove any food particles or debris that may be causing irritation or pain.

2. Take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to alleviate pain and inflammation.

3. Apply a cold compress to the affected area to help numb the pain and reduce swelling.

4. Avoid eating or drinking anything that is too hot, cold, or sugary as it can aggravate the toothache.

5. Try to avoid putting pressure on the affected area and rest as much as possible.

Remember that these remedies are only temporary solutions, and it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to address the underlying cause of the toothache. A dentist can examine your teeth and recommend appropriate treatment to alleviate the pain and prevent further complications.

What will happen in my visit to the dentist for a toothache?

Firstly, the dentist will check for-

cavities, gum condition, whether there is food lodgment, sensitivity check, and vitality test to know whether the tooth is alive or not, the dentist will do the cold test, and tap test.

Secondly, the dentist will check outside your mouth for any swelling, pus drainage, sinus opening, lymph node enlargement, face asymmetry, and more.

Thirdly,

Take bitewing and periapical x-rays of that particular tooth or side or will recommend OPG, and CBCT according to the condition.

Dentist is taking a look at the dental xray

Finally, the dentist will you give a treatment plan.

If the pain is due to a cavity then, after taking an x-ray, the dentist will see if the tooth is savable or restorable or requires root canal treatment followed by a crown. If the pain is due to gum, then deep cleaning of gums, followed by medication and gels to apply. If the tooth is not savable then removal of the tooth is advised. If the pain is due to an ulcer then ointment is given and further investigations are done.

Toothache Medication

There are several medications that may be prescribed or recommended by a dentist or doctor to treat toothache. These include:

1. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen, or paracetamol can help to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with toothache.

2. Prescription pain relievers: Stronger pain medications may be prescribed by a dentist or doctor if over-the-counter pain relievers are not effective. Eg: Aceclofenac, meftal, ketorolac, Etoricoxib, chlorzoxazone, etc

3. Antibiotics: If the toothache is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to help eliminate the infection. Eg: Amoxycillin Clavulanate, ampicillin, Moxifloxacin, 2nd and 3rd generation cephalosporins, metronidazole, fluoroquinolones, etc.

4. Antimicrobial mouthwashes: Antimicrobial mouthwashes may be recommended to help reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth and promote healing. Eg: Sanquel-AD, Sensodent-K, Hexidine, Hydroxyl, etc.

5. Desensitizing toothpaste: If the toothache is caused by sensitivity, desensitizing toothpaste may be recommended to help alleviate the pain. Eg: Thermoseal, Elsenz, Shy-nm, Sensodyne rapid relief, etc.

6. Topical anesthetics: Topical anesthetics like benzocaine can be applied directly to the affected area to numb the pain. Eg: Mucopain, Anabel, etc.

It's important to note that medication alone cannot cure toothache, and it's important to address the underlying cause of the pain. It's always best to consult with a dentist for guidance and treatment options.

What are toothache remedies at home?

There are several toothache remedies that you can try at home to help alleviate the pain and discomfort. Here are a few:

1. Saltwater rinse: Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth with it for 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can help to subside inflammation and reduces pain.

2. Cold compress: Hold a cold compress or ice pack against your cheek over the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time which reduces swelling and numbs the pain.

3. Over-the-counter pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relief medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help to alleviate pain and inflammation.

4. Clove oil: Apply a small amount of clove oil to the affected area with a cotton swab or ball. Clove oil contains eugenol, which has natural analgesic properties and can help to alleviate toothache pain.

5. Peppermint tea bags: Place a used peppermint tea bag in the affected area of the mouth. Peppermint has natural numbing properties that can help to alleviate toothache pain.

6. Garlic: Crush a garlic clove and mix it with a little salt. Apply the mixture to the affected area for a few minutes. Garlic has natural antibacterial properties and can help to alleviate toothache pain.

Remember that these remedies are only temporary solutions, and it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to address the underlying cause of the toothache.

Frequently asked questions:

What is toothache?

A toothache is a pain in or around a tooth that is caused by tooth decay, gum disease, dental trauma, or other dental problems.

What are the common causes of toothache?

The most common causes of toothache include tooth decay, gum disease, tooth abscess, dental trauma, tooth grinding, impacted wisdom teeth, and dental procedures.

What are the symptoms of toothache?

Symptoms of toothache include pain in or around the tooth, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling, redness, and a bad taste or odor in the mouth.

What can I do to alleviate toothache?

To alleviate toothache, you can try over-the-counter pain relievers, apply a cold compress, rinse your mouth with salt water, or try other home remedies. However, it's important to see a dentist to address the underlying cause of the pain.

When should I see a dentist for toothache?

You should see a dentist as soon as possible if you have a toothache that lasts for more than a day or two, if you have a fever, swelling, or pus around the tooth, or if you have difficulty swallowing or breathing.

How is toothache diagnosed and treated?

To diagnose toothache, a dentist will examine your teeth and gums and may take X-rays to determine the underlying cause of the pain. Treatment options may include fillings, root canal therapy, extractions, or other dental procedures, depending on the cause of the pain.

How can I prevent toothache?

To prevent toothache, it's important to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing a dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. You should also avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and wear a mouthguard during sports or other activities that could cause dental damage.

Author-

Dr. Abi Negi

Dentist

10 + years of experience

Certification in Rotary Endodontics

Associate Fellowship in Laser Dentistry Certification in Practical Implantology

Certification in Laser Treatments Diploma in Practical Occlusion and Restorative Dentistry Course Advanced occlusion appliance therapy, TMD Comprehensive Course in Veneers - Ceramic & Composite Aesthetic Certified - Europe, Germany WHO Health Program Certified Certification in Laser Dentistry Fellow of the Academy of General Education (FAGE) Member of the Indian Dental Association (IDA)