Description
Tooth pain can have multiple causes, including deep cavities, gum infection, tooth abscess, a broken or cracked tooth, tooth sensitivity, or wisdom tooth eruption. Sometimes, the pain may be referred, like in cases of sinusitis, where the pain extends to the teeth.
Signs and Symptoms
The pain can be sharp and throbbing, continuous, or only occur when pressure is applied to the tooth or when drinking or eating something cold or hot. Swelling in the gums or face, or the presence of pus with a bad taste, may also appear – a sign of an abscess.
How to Treat It?
At home, you can start with simple steps to alleviate the pain:
Rinse with warm saltwater
Use safe pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
Apply a cold compress to the cheek to reduce swelling
When to Visit the Dentist?
If the pain lasts more than two days, is severe, or is accompanied by swelling or fever, you need to see the dentist immediately. Ignoring the pain can lead to more serious complications.
What to Expect from the Dentist?
The dentist will examine the affected tooth and may request X-rays (available in most clinics) to identify the cause. Depending on the situation, they will begin treatment, whether it's cleaning the tooth, placing a temporary filling, prescribing antibiotics for an abscess, or extracting the tooth if it’s too damaged to be saved.
Preparing for Your Visit
Take notes on the nature of the pain, when it started, and what alleviates or worsens it.
Take pain relievers before your visit if the pain is severe (unless you expect an extraction under anesthesia).
Inform the dentist about any medications you’re taking or health conditions you have.