Pain from a toothache can affect your entire mouth and even spread to your head, ears and neck. Many dental problems can lead to toothaches that range from mild to severe. While some toothaches are not the result of a serious dental problem, see your doctor or dentist for any tooth pain that does not go away in a day or two or if it is accompanied by a fever or bleeding.
Causes
Almost any dental problem or injury can cause a toothache. Any sudden pressure or trauma to the mouth can cause tooth pain. Bacterial infections and cavities may cause an ongoing toothache or sudden pain when you touch a certain area. An abscessed or decaying tooth is another common source of toothache pain. Even a sinus infection or cold can cause tooth or jaw pain.
Self Care
You can often ease mild to moderate toothache pain yourself if you do not have an oral injury or dental problem. Rinsing your mouth with warm water can relieve mild pain. Brushing your teeth and flossing thoroughly can help remove bacteria or food particles that can be a source of pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can also relieve pain. Topical over-the-counter gels that contain benzocaine can numb the area and relieve pain temporarily.
Medical/Dental Treatment
If your toothache does not go away with home remedies or over-the-counter medications, you may have a medical or dental problem that requires treatment. See your doctor if you have a fever, excessive swelling or severe pain in your mouth. These can be signs of a serious infection or underlying medical condition. Your dentist can fill any cavities and remove any abscessed tooth. For severe toothaches, your dentist may prescribe prescription painkillers to dull the pain until the underlying problem is treated.
Warnings
While topical medications can ase toothache pain, do not place over-the-counter pain relievers meant for swallowing directly against your gums. Aspirin and other pain relievers can burn your gum tissue and make the pain worse. Always check with your doctor before using any over-the-counter medications or herbal supplements to avoid potentially serious interactions with other medications you may be taking. Never attempt to pull a tooth yourself.
Prevention
Although not all toothaches can be prevented, practicing good oral hygiene is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy and free of infection. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day can help prevent plaque build-up that can lead to cavities and other oral problems. Eat healthy, nutritious foods as much as possible and keep sweets, sugary drinks and carbonated beverages to a minimum to prevent decay.
