Is there an ache in your mouth that is unbearable? You may be suffering from a toothache, which if not properly treated could lead to more serious health complications. A toothache usually refers to pain around the teeth or jaws. In many instances, toothaches are caused by tooth or jaw problems such as a cavity, cracked tooth, an exposed tooth root, gum disease and many more problems. Sometimes, toothaches can be caused by a problem that does not originate in the tooth or the jaw. Pain around the teeth and the jaws can be symptoms of diseases of the heart, ears, and sinuses. It is important to recognize a toothache right away and receive treatment in order to protect your body from any further problems. Causes of a Toothache Tooth decay is often listed as the primary cause of a toothache, but it is important to complete an oral examination to determine the exact cause. Depending on the amount of tooth decay that you have, treatment may require a composite or amalgam filling. When accompanied by nerve damage or exposure of the root pulp, a root canal may be needed. Toothaches can also be the cause of an infection or abscessed tooth, which is the result of tooth decay or trauma. Treatment for an infection or abscess often begins with antibiotics and pain treatment, with a follow-up visit for root canal therapy. As a final restoration, your weakened tooth might be strengthened with a crown or veneer. Other causes of toothaches often include: • Enamel loss • Wear and tear • Crack or fracture in tooth • Teeth grinding • Impacted wisdom teeth • Gum recession • Tooth sensitivity Alleviate Your Pain At Home If you have a toothache it is very important that you see a dentist at once for diagnosis and treatment because, if left untreated, your condition can worsen. However, if you are unable to schedule an emergency appointment, a self-care treatment can temporarily alleviate pain and inflammation from a toothache: • Rinse with warm salt water. • Gently floss teeth to dislodge any food particles trapped between teeth. • Never put aspirin or any other painkiller against the gums near the aching tooth, as it may burn the gum tissue. • If there has been some trauma to the tooth, a cold compress may be applied on the outside cheek to relieve pain or swelling. If your tooth has been knocked out, forced out of position, loosened or fractured, visit the dentist's office or a hospital emergency room immediately. Prevent Toothaches The most important aspect to preventing toothaches is by establishing a regular oral hygiene routine and sticking with it. Failure to brush and floss regularly after meals can significantly increase your risk of developing cavities. Bacteria in your mouth left behind by food will begin to feed on sugar and starch producing acid that can eat a hole in your tooth's enamel. If the cavity is not filled, it can cause considerable pain and potentially destroy the dentin, pulp and the tooth's nerve. Follow these simple tips to help prevent toothaches: • Brush at least twice a day, preferably after every meal and snack • Floss once a day to prevent gum disease • Visit your dentist twice a year for oral examinations and a professional cleaning Treatment for toothaches will vary depending on the severity and the cause for pain. For severe or persistent tooth pain, contact your dentist in Lincoln Park today for further treatment and diagnosis. The sooner you visit your dentist, the quicker your pain can be eliminated, so don't hold off.
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Does your toothache bother you? Many people who have a toothache often still avoid the dentist because they are fearful that the drill will hurt more than their toothache. With advances in dentistry, treatment of your toothache isn't painful. Continue reading to learn more about toothaches and how visiting your dentist can help relieve your pain.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Eliot Tokowitz, a leading dentist in Lincoln Park and Lakeview. Specializing in services including, but not limited to, veneers, TMJ treatment, implants and Invisalign, Dr. Tokowitz, dentist in Lakeview is the premier choice for quality dental care patients can trust.
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