Medline Plus describes a toothache as pain that stems from the tooth or radiates around it. Tooth pain ranges from mild discomfort to excruciating pain. Tooth pain can have a variety of causes, but generally stems from a problem with the teeth or gums.
Causes
The causes of a toothache can range from minor, temporary pain to a serious condition that calls for urgent care. The Mayo Clinic says tooth decay is one of the primary sources of tooth pain. Minor causes include food getting stuck in between the teeth or gums and pressing against nerves. Sensitive gums can also be a minor cause of tooth pain and can be soothed by not eating or drinking items that are extremely hot or cold. More serious causes could be a cavity or abscessed tooth. Cracked teeth, gum disease and wisdom tooth impaction are also serious dental problems that need to be diagnosed and treated by a dentist or oral surgeon.
Symptoms
Aside from the tooth hurting, causes of a toothache can originate from other areas of the face. Jaw and facial pain are common with severe wisdom tooth impaction and cavities. The TMJ Association also explains that jaw and tooth pain could be the result of TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle Disorders), which causes facial pain in the lower jaw area. The pain can radiate from the jaw to the areas throughout the face. This is caused from the nerve stems being irritated within the tooth and gums. If a fever or facial swelling is present along with a toothache, immediate medical help is recommended.
Over-the-Counter Treatment
At the first sign of a toothache, many people rely on over-the-counter treatment to provide relief until seeing a dentist or doctor. A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as naproxen, Motrin or aspirin can all provide safe pain relief while reducing inflammation. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that an NSAID works by preventing the COX enzyme from performing properly, thus blocking pain. For instant tooth pain relief, a numbing agent that contains benzocaine will help take the pain away on contact.
Professional Treatment
Any type of toothache that is not related to food particles or sensitive teeth should be looked at by a dental professional, explains the University of Virginia Health System. A dental hygienist will take X-rays and clean your mouth. The dentist, orthodontist or oral surgeon will then review your X-rays and examine your mouth. He will then determine what treatment you will need, such as oral surgery, a crown, filling, root canal, implant or extraction of the tooth.
Prevention
Preventing tooth pain starts by taking responsibility for your oral health, starting at home by brushing your teeth after every meal and flossing regularly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says you should eat your daily serving of fruits and vegetables and avoid eating excess sugars. Seeing your dentist every six months for a cleaning and exam will help catch oral health problems before they become serious.
