Toothache
A toothache is pain that is felt in the mouth or jaw from a problem with one or more teeth or the gums. Sensitivity or pain typically moves along the nerves in the center of the tooth, known as the pulp.
A toothache may be caused by:
- Dental decay. Bacteria and other organisms, often present in plaque that forms on the teeth, can result in tooth decay. Pain from decay may not develop until the late stages.
- Infection around the tooth.
- An impacted tooth. A tooth that does not break through the skin can cause pain and gum inflammation.
- Gum disease. Receding gums or unhealthy gums can lead to pain in and around the teeth.
- An injury to the pulp. Extreme sensitivity to temperatures or sweet or sour tastes can occur when the pulp has been injured or exposed by wear or the loss of a filling.
Although it is not as common, a toothache can be caused by a problem not related to the teeth, such as a sinus infection, shingles, or cluster headaches.
A toothache should be evaluated by a dentist right away to determine the cause of the problem and prevent the tooth from dying.
Caring for toothaches and gum problems
Try these tips to help treat a sensitive tooth, toothache, or gum problem.
- Treat tooth sensitivity.
You can reduce sensitivity to heat, cold, or brushing.
- Use a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth.
- Brush with it regularly, or rub a small amount of the paste on the sensitive area with your finger 2 or 3 times a day.
- Floss gently between your teeth.
- Ease a toothache.
- Use an ice pack on the outside of your cheek to reduce pain and swelling. Don't use heat.
- Avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks if they make your pain worse.
- Adults can apply an over-the-counter benzocaine gel to the tooth for short–term relief. Do not use teething gels for children younger than age 2. Ask your doctor before using mouth-numbing medicine for children older than age 2. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that some of these can be dangerous. Be safe with medicine. Read and follow all instructions on the label. If your pain lasts longer than a few days or it gets worse, call a doctor.
- Treat gum problems.
- Use a tartar-control toothpaste that contains fluoride. And use a mouthwash that contains fluoride if your gums are mildly swollen and red.
- Make sure to brush after meals and snacks and floss every day.
- Chew sugar-free gum, use a toothpick, or rinse your mouth with warm salt water if you can't brush after eating. You can make your own salt water by mixing 1 tsp (5 mL) of salt in a medium-sized glass [ 8 fl oz (240 mL) ] of warm water.
- Don't smoke or use other tobacco products. Tobacco can cause many gum problems, decrease your ability to fight infection of your gums, and delay healing.
- Don't use illegal drugs, such as methamphetamines, that cause tooth and gum problems.
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