Whether it’s a dull, throbbing ache or a sharp, shooting pain, a toothache should never be ignored, as it is often a sign that something is wrong and requires prompt attention. In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of toothaches, why it’s crucial to seek professional dental care, and what to expect during an examination and treatment process.

What is a toothache?

As the name suggests, a toothache is a pain or discomfort felt in or around a tooth. It can range from mild to severe and can be constant or intermittent. 

It is often a warning sign that something is wrong with the affected tooth or surrounding area, and it should not be ignored. Seeking prompt dental treatment is essential to diagnose and address the underlying cause and prevent further complications.

What causes toothaches?

There are several common causes of toothaches, including:

Tooth decay (cavities)

When bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, it can lead to cavities or holes in the teeth. As the decay progresses deeper into the tooth, it can reach the inner pulp, causing pain and sensitivity.

Cracked or fractured tooth

A cracked or fractured tooth can expose the inner layers of the tooth, including the pulp, to bacteria and irritation, resulting in pain and sensitivity.

Gum disease (periodontal disease)

Advanced gum disease can cause the gums to recede or pull away from the teeth, exposing the sensitive root surfaces and leading to pain and discomfort.

Tooth abscess

An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to a bacterial infection, often as a result of untreated tooth decay or a cracked tooth. The buildup of pus and pressure can cause severe, throbbing pain.

Tooth grinding (bruxism)

Clenching or grinding your teeth, especially at night, can put excessive pressure on the teeth and jaw muscles, leading to tooth pain and sensitivity.

Trauma or injury

A blow to the mouth, such as from a sports injury or a fall, can cause tooth pain if a tooth is cracked, chipped, or knocked loose.

Dental work

After certain dental procedures, such as a filling, crown, or root canal treatment, it’s normal to experience some temporary tooth sensitivity or discomfort.

What forms of toothache treatment are there?

There are several ways to treat toothaches, depending on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatments:

Over-the-counter pain medication

For temporary relief, over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. However, these medications only mask the symptoms and do not address the root cause of the toothache.

Cold compress

Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain temporarily.

Saltwater rinse

Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing by removing irritants and bacteria from the affected area.

Dental fillings

If the toothache is caused by tooth decay or a cavity, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill it with a dental filling material to restore the tooth’s structure and prevent further decay.

Root canal treatment

If the pulp (soft inner tissue of the tooth) becomes infected or inflamed, root canal therapy may be necessary. This involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and sealing it with a temporary or permanent filling.

Tooth extraction

In cases of severe tooth decay, a cracked or fractured tooth beyond repair, or advanced gum disease, the dentist may recommend extracting (removing) the affected tooth to relieve the pain and prevent further complications.

Antibiotics

If a tooth abscess or bacterial infection is present, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection before performing any necessary dental procedures.

Gum disease treatment

For toothaches caused by gum disease, treatments may involve scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line, or in severe cases, gum surgery.

Where can I get effective toothache treatment?

If you’re looking for a dentist in Greenvale, contact us and we will provide you with a modern, caring approach to your dental health.

Our Dental Practice specialises in various dental disciplines such as:

We offer high-quality dental services at our clinic to patients from Greenvale and surrounding suburbs like CraigieburnTullamarinePascoe Vale, Airport West, Melbourne Airport, MicklehamOaklands JunctionAttwoodRoxburgh ParkMeadow HeightsWestmeadowsCampbellfield and Donnybrook.