Toothaches occur in or around the tooth. It is mostly a sign that all is not well with the gum or the tooth. In most cases, the pain from toothache is excruciating and quite discomforting. Do not ignore the onset of toothache especially those caused by tooth decay. Toothaches are not life-threatening but this illness can get worse and require professional medical attention.
Common causes of toothaches
Tooth decay is the main cause of tooth pain. If tooth decay isn’t treated, it could lead to a tooth abscess. This is an infection that has reached or is close to the pulp of your tooth. See your dentist right away if you think you have a tooth abscess. In very rare situations, the infection can move to the brain and kill the person.
Tooth pain could also be caused by a tooth that is stuck in the gum. It happens when a tooth, usually a wisdom tooth, doesn’t break through the gums or line up right with the other teeth. This makes it harder for it to grow or burst.
Common causes of referred pain toothaches
Sinusitis is an infection in the sinus cavity caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Since the roots of the upper teeth are so close to the sinuses, they can hurt when you have sinusitis.
Less common causes of referred pain toothaches
Toothaches can be a sign of problems with the heart or lungs. A toothache can sometimes be a sign that a heart attack is about to happen.
Because it is close to the heart and lungs, the vagus nerve can also cause tooth pain in people who have problems with their heart or lungs. This nerve starts in the brain and goes to the heart, the lungs, and other parts of the body. Your jaw is where it gets into your body.
Rare causes of referred pain toothaches
Trigeminal and occipital neuralgia are both serious diseases of the nervous system that are
caused by irritation or inflammation of the trigeminal or occipital nerves. Blood flows through your teeth, jaw, and head because of these nerves. When they get swollen, they can hurt like a toothache.
Toothache Treatment
Like other illnesses, toothache usually requires medical attention. Although there are home
treatments or first aid that give temporary relief, it is better to see a doctor or dentist when you have a toothache.
Dental treatment
Since dental problems cause 91% of tooth pain, it shouldn’t be a surprise that people go to the dentist when they have tooth pain. Your dentist can find tooth decay and other dental problems by taking X-rays and giving you a thorough examination. If doctors think you have an infection, they may give you medicine and pain relievers.
If the problem is decay, your dentist will remove the decayed part of your tooth and fill it with a dental filling. To get rid of a tooth that is stuck, surgery may be needed.
If your dentist can’t figure out why your tooth hurts, they may suggest that you see your primary care doctor for more testing and treatment.
Sinusitis treatment
Your doctor may give you decongestants or antibiotics to help with the pain and other symptoms of sinusitis. In very rare cases, surgery to widen the airway in the nose may be an option. Your doctor will send you to a specialist in this case.
Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia and occipital neuralgia
There is no cure for these diseases right now. A common part of treatment is to take medicine to ease the pain.
Treatment for heart attack, heart disease, and lung cancer
The dentist will call 911 if they think you are having a heart attack. If the dentist thinks the
patient has heart or lung disease, he or she will send the patient to a doctor for more testing.
Home treatment
Home treatment is usually carried out to temporarily relieve discomfort caused by pain. Some of the common treatments include:
- Aspirin is one example of a pain reliever that can be bought and used without a prescription.
- OTC topical dental pain medication is available over the counter (Anbesol, Orajel).
- Applying clove oil to the aching tooth.
Ensure you get the nod from your doctor before using any product with benzocaine. Children under age 2 are also prohibited from using products that contain benzocaine.
How to know toothache requires emergency treatment
Toothache comes with several symptoms asides from the pain. If you have any of the following symptoms, see your doctor.
- If your cheeks or jaw swell up, it could be a sign that you are getting a tooth infection.
- Signs of a heart attack.
- Breathing problems, a cough that won’t go away, or bloody phlegm.
- The trouble with swallowing and breathing.
How to prevent toothaches
Toothaches can be prevented by brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day and going to the dentist at least once every six months (or more often if necessary). You can keep your heart and lungs healthy if you stop smoking, eat a low-fat, high-fibre diet, and work out five times a week at a moderate level. Talk to your doctor before you start any new workout plan.
