A toothache, or dental pain, happens when the nerve ending in the root of a tooth or the surrounding teeth reacts, often due to irritation.
Most toothaches are caused by tooth decay, injury, or loss of a tooth. Pain also comes from tooth extraction.
Toothache or Dental Pain
During a toothache, the pulp of the tooth is irritated. The pulp is located inside the tooth where tissues and nerves are.
If there is something wrong with the pulp, you’ll feel it in the entire tooth, even the mouth.
If you feel an unbearable toothache, Preston Supreme Dental is here to help you overcome it. Toothaches come in many different forms. If the pain subsides on its own, it doesn’t mean the problem that caused it is gone.
It may come back with a more severe effect. A slight pain may be a symptom of something worse. Do not disregard this issue, instead let your dentist help you figure things out.
What Causes a Toothache?
The causes of toothache vary for each individual. Always, the best way to find out is to visit your dentist. Here are the common causes of toothaches or dental pain:
Toothache occurs from inflammation of the pulp or the central portion of the tooth. The pulp is very sensitive to pain for it has nerve endings that get irritated easily.
Dental cavities, trauma, and infection may cause inflammation to the pulp, or pulpitis.
Tooth decay
Bacteria in the plaque often causes tooth decay. When ignored, it sticks into the teeth surface. The bacteria wear away the enamel of the tooth exposing the sensitive nerve endings of the tooth.
It can continue to worm its way into the centre of the tooth when disregarded. Bacteria in the pulp cause serious dental pain.
Trauma
Another cause of pulp exposure is trauma. When your tooth gets broken, cracked, or chipped away, it can expose the pulp of your tooth and put it at risk of infection.
Gum Disease
Abscess is an example of gum disease. Abscesses form below or alongside the root of the tooth, and causes oversensitivity, pain, and infection.
Abnormal bite
Abnormal bite or misalignment of the teeth causes uneven pressure in the mouth of the patient. It may require the help of orthodontic treatment for correction.
Impacted tooth
When the tooth does not fully grow through the gums, it irritates the surrounding nerves, leading to pain. The most common cases of an impacted tooth are with the wisdom teeth and other molars.
Bruxism
Bruxism, also called teeth grinding, is a condition in which you gnash, grind, or clench your teeth unconsciously when you are awake or asleep. Most people grind their teeth due to stress and anxiety.
Teeth grinding causes the teeth to wear down over time and exposes the sensitive parts of the teeth.
Symptoms of Toothache
Listed below are some of the signs and symptoms that may lead you to seek dental care:
- Pain while chewing
- Sensitivity in eating or drinking hot or cold foods
- Bleeding or discharge from around a tooth or gums
- Swelling of the gums around the tooth
- Swelling of your jaw
- Injury or trauma to the area
How to ease dental pain
While waiting to see your dentist, follow these steps to relieve yourself from the pain:
- Rinse your mouth with lukewarm salt water. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of lukewarm water. Use this to gargle several times a day.
- Take a Painkiller. Painkillers, like aspirin, can help ease the pain for the meantime. Only swallow them and do not apply directly to the affected part.
- Place a cold compress or hold ice against your cheek to help subside the pain.
Emergency Dental Care at Preston Supreme Dental
Preston Supreme Dental is ready to attend to your dental emergencies. We assure you of high-quality dental care.
Same Day Dental Emergency Appointment Available!
We provide same day appointments for emergency cases. We also offer extended care for a wide range of dental emergencies.
If you have any dental emergencies that need immediate relief or attention, call us at (03) 9478 7708 to make an appointment or visit us at 243 Murray Road, Preston, Vic 3072
Book Your Consultation Today! Book Below or
Call (03) 9478 7708
Book Online
Have Some Questions?
What Insurances Do You Accept?
All insurances are accepted with HICAPS. As a preferred provider for NIB, CBHS, HCF and Smile
Is there public transport available?
We are located across Woolworths Supermarket and beside Preston Market
Easily accessible via public transportation (bus stop within walking distance)