Toothache

Toothache involves pain from the tooth, surrounding gums and soft tissues.

This pain can be mild or severe in the form of a sharp pain or throbbing sensation or a dull ache. Often this pain is worse when eating or drinking particularly hot or cold things. 

Toothache can be caused by several issues such as tooth decay, cracked or damaged teeth or restorations, teeth that are actively being aligned for orthodontic treatment, inflamed gums or infection and dental abscesses.

An examination will be needed to diagnose the cause of your toothache and we always encourage you to seek help at the earliest opportunity. Early diagnosis and preventative regular check-ups mean any problems can be rectified early and increases the success of dental procedures.

Steps to take to ease the discomfort:

~ Taking over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. You can also get advice from your local pharmacist.

~ Gentle salt-water rinses for adults.

~ Applying pain relieving mouth gels from the pharmacy.

~ Avoiding hard foods and opting for softer foods such as soup, scrambled egg and yoghurt.

~ Avoid eating on the painful tooth.

~ Avoid foods that are particularly hot or cold.

~ Applying orthodontic wax to your braces if it rubs the gum, lips or cheeks.