"Toothache" – What should you do to make it go away?

     Tooth pain is one of the most common dental issues. Most of the time, tooth pain is caused by tooth decay, but many other causes can lead to tooth pain.

Possible Causes of Tooth Pain

• Tooth decay that leads to pain usually starts with small holes or cavities where food debris gets stuck. If the decay hasn't reached the tooth nerve, it can be treated with a filling. However, if it has, it often causes severe pain and may require a root canal treatment or extraction.
• Cracked or Broken Teeth If a tooth is cracked or broken, cold or hot temperatures can reach the tooth's nerve, causing pain. Worn-down teeth can also cause sensitivity, but if the wear reaches the nerve, it may result in a dead tooth, pain, and the need for extraction.
• Gum Inflammation Caused by plaque buildup, gum inflammation can lead to pain that feels like it’s coming from the tooth, which can be confusing. Symptoms include a dull ache, tenderness, bleeding when brushing, and loose teeth in severe cases. Treatment involves professional cleaning and possibly additional dental treatments, including tooth extraction in extreme cases.
• Wisdom Teeth Pain from wisdom teeth occurs when the last molars grow improperly, possibly pressing on adjacent teeth. These areas are often hard to clean, leading to food debris buildup and potential infection around the wisdom tooth.
• Previously Treated Teeth In some cases, a tooth treated with a filling or root canal may experience pain again. This could be due to the filling material breaking down or leaking, allowing decay to spread under the old filling. In this case, the tooth may need further treatment.
• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) Grinding teeth at night can cause jaw pain and discomfort in the molar area, which can often be mistaken for tooth or wisdom tooth pain. Many patients are unaware that they grind their teeth while sleeping.
• Pain from Other Health Conditions Sometimes, pain can radiate to the teeth from other areas, such as the ears, sinuses, or heart-related conditions, leading to referred pain in the teeth.

8 Ways to Relieve Tooth Pain

• Take pain relievers and see a dentist for immediate treatment.
• Avoid spicy, cold, or hot foods.
• Eat soft foods to reduce chewing force and lessen tooth impact.
• Avoid chewing on the side that hurts.
• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Avoid alcohol of any kind.
• Brush your teeth properly and floss carefully.
• See a dentist for regular check-ups every 6–12 months.

Summary

     Tooth pain is not something that resolves on its own. Don’t just rely on painkillers if the underlying issue isn’t addressed. It’s recommended to visit a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent the pain from worsening.