What is toothache?
Toothache occurs when there is pain within a tooth or multiple teeth. This can affect the eating, speech, and comfort of a person. Toothache is typically an indicator that something is happening in the mouth – so if it persists for two or more days, we suggest making an appointment with your dentist.
What causes toothache?
There are multiple factors that can cause toothache:
- Tooth decay.
- Infection.
- Gum recession.
- A deep filling.
- A broken or ill-fitting filling.
- Braces.
- Erupting teeth.
- A cracked, chipped or split tooth.
We suggest making an appointment with your dentist if the pain is ongoing.
How to spot toothache/symptoms?
Toothache can be recognised as a sharp or dull ache within the teeth, jaw and gums. The gums may feel tender and appear red or pink and swollen. Eating and speaking may become harder to do and even painful.
What prevents toothache?
The best way to prevent toothache is by maintaining a healthy mouth. We suggest using the following guidance to ensure your mouth is in good condition and you don’t experience toothache:
- Clean in between your teeth with floss or interdental brushes. When brushing your teeth try to do it gently and in circular motions, for no less than two minutes. Use a mouthwash to help keep the mouth clean from bacteria and plaque build-up.
- Attending regular 6–12-month check-up appointments with your dentist and discussing with them any concerns or struggles you might have with maintaining hygiene.
- Reduce sugary and acidic food and drink intake.
- Don’t bite on foods that are very tough, such as hard-boiled sweets.
What treats toothache?
To treat toothache at home, you can take painkillers like ibuprofen, paracetamol and pain relief gels which can all be bought over the counter. Rinsing the mouth with lukewarm salt water may also provide some relief to the area. If you are struggling to eat, we suggest swapping to softer foods that require less or no effort to chew. Most importantly, make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible.