A toothache is a sharp or persistent throbbing pain in a tooth or gum. It can range in intensity from a minor inconvenience to a major annoyance and can be caused by everything from food stuck between teeth to serious bacterial infection. Often the pain is relieved by home treatment but most severe throbbing toothaches need to be treated by a dental professional.
Toothaches can be a warning of a serious problem and it is important to call for an appointment as soon as possible. Delaying treatment could exacerbate the pain and cause infection to spread from the mouth to other areas of the body.
Dealing with a Toothache: Causes and Treatment Options
Common causes of toothache include tooth decay (dental caries), damaged teeth, or jaw/mouth injury. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down sugar from food and drink to form acids that damage the tooth surface. Over time, these acid attacks can create cavities and expose the sensitive inner tissues of the tooth. Tooth decay is the leading cause of a toothache and can be easily prevented by brushing and flossing twice daily, cutting down on sugary foods/drinks, and getting regular dental checkups.
Many natural remedies can help ease a toothache including drinking a glass of salt water, chewing on a clove, or using a mouthwash with alcohol to disinfect and numb the teeth. Clove oil can also be applied to the painful area as a topical anesthetic. If you are unsure of the cause of your toothache, make an appointment with a dentist for a thorough exam including x-rays and a physical examination.
