What Causes a Toothache?

There is nothing that compares to the throbbing pain of a toothache. Most would do anything to get the pestering pain to subside. However, toothaches occur for a reason. It is typically our body’s way of telling us that something is wrong. Continue reading to discover the most common reasons for a toothache and the steps to take to be relieved from the pain.

What causes a toothache?

The best way to discover the cause of a toothache is to plan a visit with your dentist so that they can conduct a thorough oral exam. Generally, the most common reasons for a toothache include the following:

  • Infection
  • Tooth trauma
  • Gum disease
  • An abnormal bite
  • Grinding teeth
  • Tooth eruption (common for school-age children)

No matter the cause of the toothache, some of the most common symptoms that come with a toothache include the following:

  • Fever
  • Continuous pain
  • Swelling around the tooth area
  • Pain when you bite
  • A foul-tasting discharge
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing

How can I get a toothache to go away?

Of course, if you are feeling severe tooth pain, it is essential that you visit a dentist as soon as possible. A dentist will be able to determine if you have a serious issue that may require immediate attention.

However, if you are experiencing a somewhat dull, yet persistent toothache, you may not want to rush to the dentist straight away. In the meantime, you may want to try a few at-home remedies. For starters, your tooth pain could be from grinding your teeth. If this is the case, you may benefit from ordering an affordable yet effective night guard that will put this bad habit to rest. Another alternative method is to take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication which will help reduce the ache in the meantime. Another tip you can try is to apply a cold compress to the sensitive area for around 20 minutes at a time. Lastly, try rinsing your mouth with salt water which is known for its cleaning properties. These tips may help you to find relief from the pain until you can be seen by a dentist.

If a toothache is preventing you from living your normal life, it is recommended that you see a dentist as soon as possible. Reach out to our trusted dental team today if you have any further questions. We are here to help.

Contact The Dental Associates of Basking Ridge

Dental Associates of Basking Ridge is a compassionate, gentle, and professional state-of-the-art dental practice serving Basking Ridge, Morris & Somerset County. Our office is always ready to greet our patients with a smile, take the time to answer any questions, and provide the quality dental services our patients expect. Please contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you!

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