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Are you bothered by a toothache? Is there a constant throb in your mouth caused by one or more of your teeth? When experiencing a toothache, many people avoid going to the dentist for treatment until they can no longer handle the pain. Fortunately, there are several methods in which your toothache can be treated and your tooth saved that doesn't require extraction. Treatments for toothaches vary significantly depending on the severity of the pain and its cause. Early detection is vital in preserving your tooth and alleviating the pain. Types of Toothaches There are several types of toothaches, each of which may signify a different type of oral health problem. Proper evaluation and diagnosis by your Warrenton dentist can help determine the type of toothache you are suffering from, and its source. The following are different types of toothaches: * Sharp, intermittent tooth sensitivity or pain. Sensitivity may signal gum recession, enamel loss from over-brushing or aging, wear and tear or a small dental cavity.
* Chronic toothache. If one or more of your teeth is affected by chronic toothache, the cause could be nerve damage, which is often a result of teeth grinding, severe tooth decay or trauma.
* Intense, throbbing pain. Sometimes accompanied by a swollen face can signal a sign of an infection or abscess.
* Painful while eating. If it is too painful too eat, you may have tooth decay or a slight fracture in your tooth.
* Back-of-the-jaw pain. This can be associated with impacted wisdom teeth, but can also be a sign of TMD or teeth grinding. Find Relief for Your Toothache Until you are able to reach the dental office, there are a few ways to find relief from your dental pain. Your dentist may advise you to take ibuprofen, acetaminophen or aspirin to dull your pain. Over-the-counter medications can also help reduce pain in the affected tooth or surrounding gum area, but aspirin that is applied directly to the tooth is not recommended because it can burn the gums or cheek. To reduce discomfort from swelling, you may be advised to swish warm saltwater in your mouth periodically throughout the day, and apply an ice pack to the swollen area. Always contact your dentist before you begin any at-home treatments. Is Your Toothache More Than Just an Ache? Some toothaches can signify more serious health issues, making it important not to ignore your pain. Studies have shown that heart attacks may be signaled by the sensation of pain on the left side of the jaw. Soreness in the jaw and cheekbones or difficulty in chewing can also be the first sign of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), which is a serious maxillofacial condition. Additionally, sinus infections may produce pain in the upper molar teeth. This can lead you to the assumption that your pain is just the result of a dental problem, when it is more. For these reasons it is important to consult your dentist if you have a chronic or extremely painful toothache. The good news is that your dentist in Warrenton offers advanced methods for identifying the sources of toothache pain. Your Warrenton dentist can relieve your toothache in a more comforting and effective way to preserve your teeth. Don't ignore your pain. Contact your dentist today.
Sean Hartmen writes for Drs. Yung and Jelinek, dentists in Warrenton, VA. Offering a wide range of services including implants, oral surgery, and dentures in Warrenton, Drs. Yung and Jelinek are qualified to handle any dental need for patients of all ages.
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