If you have a toothache, you may want to seek treatment as soon as possible. It could be the result of a serious dental issue. Contact Thousand Oaks Dental in San Antonio, and we’ll bring that tooth to excellent condition so that you can bring back that smile.
Do I Need to Worry About a Toothache?
It’s probably best to have Dr. Thompson check it out to ensure it’s not a serious condition. Toothaches sometimes go away with time, but this isn’t necessarily good. For example, if the pain goes away suddenly, it might be because the tooth root has died. But the problem may still be there and may grow.
Even small dental problems can worsen and quickly become bigger ones. For example, an infection is a common toothache source. An infection could seriously damage the jawbone and spread to the rest of your body, causing serious illness. Seeking professional treatment is the safest option and the best way to ensure pain relief.
How Do I Know if I Need Treatment?
Symptoms can include persistent, sharp, severe, or throbbing tooth, aw, or ear pain. This may make it difficult to open your mouth, speak or eat. You may experience persistent swelling or bleeding in the tooth area, gums, or pain when you apply pressure to the teeth. You may develop a fever, chills, or earache.
What Causes a Toothache?
Some of the common toothache causes are:
- Tooth decay.
- Infection
- Broken or cracked tooth.
- Tooth grinding (bruxism)
- Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
- Food or plaque between the teeth
How Can I Prevent or Relieve My Tooth Pain?
Practicing good dental hygiene is the best way to keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent the diseases that cause toothache. Brush and floss every day, and maintain a proper diet that reduces tooth decay. Wear a protective mouthguard if you play sports to prevent tooth damage, and visit us at Thousand Oaks Dental about twice per year for regular checkups. We can keep an eye out for dental conditions that may be beyond your control.
If you already have a toothache, the following tips may help you manage the pain until you can see Dr. Thompson for treatment:
- Rinse with warm salt water to remove debris between your teeth, sanitize your mouth, and reduce inflammation. Rinse for about 30 seconds, then spit out the saltwater. Don’t swallow it.
- Rinse with an antiseptic mouth wash. Check with your pharmacist about any suggestions for product recommendations.
- Take a pain reliever. Ibuprofen can be effective for toothache, as it includes a pain-reliever and anti-inflammatory. Check with your doctor before taking any medication to ensure it’s safe.
- Apply a warm, moist compress to the cheek or face outside the affected area for about five minutes. Follow with a cold compress, also for about five minutes or until your face feels numb. Repeat as necessary until you feel relief.
- Keep your head elevated. You may notice that a toothache is worse at the worst possible time – at night when you’re trying to sleep. Why would this be? Because the blood flows toward your head when you lie down. When you have a toothache, this might enhance the pressure, sensitivity, and pain.
- Floss the teeth and gums. If you have an infection, it can cause gum pain and swelling. Cleaning plaque and debris from the area with floss can help. Follow this by rinsing with warm saltwater.
Thousand Oaks Dental in San Antonio Can Make Your Toothache Disappear
Let us take a closer look at what ails you. Let us help you prevent future toothaches and any other dental issues. Dr. Precious Thompson and her excellent staff members will focus on your comfort, satisfaction, and, most importantly, your smile.
Contact us today, and we’ll set an appointment for you.