Toothache also known as Odontalgia is pain that occurs in the tooth, or around the tooth, gums or bone structures. Minor toothaches can come from a temporary gum irritation that you can treat at home.
When ever you notice the symptoms of toothache, it is best to see a dentist to avoid complications.
Causes Of Toothache
Because the pulp inside the tooth is richly filled with nerves and blood vessels, sensitivity is high when irritated.
Toothache or pain can be cause by any of the following;
- Injury to the tooth
- Abscess of the tooth (bacterial infections of the tooth)
- Tooth fracture
- Tooth decay
- Bruxism (unconscious teeth grinding)
- Eruption of tooth
- Gum infections
- Sinusitis
Symptoms of Toothache
- Problems with biting and chewing things
- Swelling around the gum
- Fever
- Headache
- Discharge or bleeding from gum
- Hypersensitivity to changes in temperature
- Bad odour and taste in the mouth
Home Remedies For Toothache
Wash With Saltwater: Dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Use the solution to rinse the mouth, repeat as much as needed but do not swallow the water.
The salt acts as a disinfectant for bacteria and reduces inflammation. It also soothes swollen gums.
Cold Compress: Another temporary way of relief is by placing an ice pack on the cheek of the aching side or the swollen gum.
Use Pain Relief Medication: Using painkillers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce pain. Also applying gels and liquids that contains benzocaine to the sore tooth or nearby gums also helps with the pain. But can only last for a short period of time.
Clove Oil: Is an ingredient in some sedative dental filling materials, it is a natural home remedy for instant relief. It can be applied directly to the area of the pain.
Use Garlic: Garlic has antibacterial effect. A paste of grinded or crushed garlic can be placed on the affected area.
Research has also proven that the following local leave extract help in reducing toothache. There includes;
- Guava leaves
- Sweet potato leave
- Tobacco leave
- Mango bark
- Sunflower leave.
Prevention
Toothache can be prevented by a good oral hygiene.
- Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day
- Reduce the rate of sugary food and drinks intake.
- Floss at least once a day.
- Run regular dental checkups
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