What You Need To Know About Severe Toothache Relief

Dental pain can be caused by a number of different factors including gum disease, cavities and injury.  The most common cause of severe toothache is pulpitis.  This is when the sensitive inner pulp of the teeth (containing the nerves and blood vessels) is inflamed.  This can be aggravated by eating any hot, cold or very sweet stimuli.  Pulpitis can be caused by damage to the teeth which has exposed the delicate inner tooth structure.  If left untreated the pulp can become infected and may die.  This can lead to a very painful condition known as a dental abscess.

A number of other conditions can also cause severe mouth pains that are very similar to toothache. These include an abscess or inflammation of the gums, ulceration of the soft mouth tissues and sinus infection (the sinuses are located close to the upper teeth roots).  A dentist will be able to identify the cause of toothache and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Severe Toothache Relief

If you have severe toothache you need to make an appointment to see a dentist as soon as possible.  If you leave toothache untreated the pain will increase and the underlying condition will just get worse.  Whilst you are waiting for your appointment at the dentist there are a number of ways you can help to relieve severe toothache.

• Avoid any hot, cold or very sweet foods and drinks.  This will aggravate pulpitis and cause sharp, stabbing pain sensations.

• You can take painkillers such as ibuprofen to reduce inflammation and provide some relief from pain.  This may not be effective though on severe pain and your doctor or dentist may be able to prescribe some stronger pain relieving medication.  Remember painkillers are not a cure for toothache and only mask the symptoms.  You will still need to visit your dentist and get the cause of the toothache treated.

• If the root of your tooth has become exposed you could try rubbing a little specialist sensitive toothpaste onto the area.  This will help ease pain until you can get your tooth treated. 

• A warm saltwater mouthwash can also help to relieve pain.  Add a teaspoon of salt to a cup of boiled water and leave to cool for a few minutes.  Test the temperature carefully and then rinse your mouth a few times (don’t swallow the water).  Warm saltwater washes can also help to relieve ulcer and gum pain.

To help prevent severe toothache in the future it is important to follow a good dental hygiene routine.  Brush your teeth twice a day and floss between meals.  You could also use a mouthwash once or twice a day to help prevent the build up of plaque.  You should also visit the dentist every 6 months for a check up.  This will help to identify any problems before they can start causing you pain.