Toothaches are common and can be caused by many different things from the mundane to the dangerous. They can be a slight annoyance or a mind-splitting pain, but if you get them it’s best to contact the dentist and take care of it. While they may seem innocuous, tooth pain can be a sign of something more serious.
What Causes Tooth Pain?
When there is something wrong, pain is one of the best ways the body knows to get your attention. It’s saying “Hey, you need to be aware of this.” Anyone that has ever scraped their knees or fell on ice knows that it’s a pretty effective wakeup call.
If you have a toothache that refuses to go away or is intensely painful, call a dentist. There’s no reason to suffer through the pain when you don’t have to. A dentist can not only diagnose the issue, but provide the relief you need.
Toothaches can be caused by cavities and tooth decay that will only get worse over time. What may have started as a simple cavity could develop into periodontal disease and require surgery. The can also lead to bacterial infections that, along with being painful, can be life threatening. This is why contacting a dentist is important. You may not consider it a big deal, but tooth pain not only impacts your quality of life, but your health and wellbeing.
Taking the Edge Off Tooth Pain
You may not be able to get in to see the dentist immediately, but there’s no use in suffering. There are many over the counter medicines that can help with the pain, but we’ll focus on the more homeopathic methods.
Salt Water – This has been a remedy for mouth problems for many years from canker sores and sore throats to tooth pain. Combine salt and warm water and swish it around the impacted area. The salt will draw out the moisture and help alleviate the pain and pressure.
Cold Compress – Ice packs and cold compresses are common methods of decreasing pain for numerous illnesses. Place the compress on the sore area from outside the mouth and it should help with the pain.
Peppermint – Probably the best tasting method of pain relief, peppermint is known for its ability to reduce swelling and ease pain. If you have peppermint leaves, then you can chew them. Soak a cotton ball in peppermint oil and place it on the sore tooth.
Toothaches are easy to ignore, but if it persists or becomes too painful to bear, then contact Dr. Ed and we’ll get you pain free in no time.