Toothaches are one of the most common (and painful!) dental problems experienced by people of all ages. Because dental pain is common, it is often hard to identify the cause of the issue. Indeed, a toothache can be due to a number of reasons, including cavities, gum disease, or trauma to the tooth. That’s why it’s important to seek emergency dentistry services for a toothache sooner rather than later.
If you’re living with tooth pain or sensitivity, the best thing you can do for your oral health is to visit a trusted dentist in Oak Park, IL. Let Dr. Thomas Wegner and his caring team at Town & Country Dental help you fight the pain and reclaim your life. Contact us today at (708) 383-0330 to get lasting relief.
Troubleshooting tooth pain can be tricky. So, in this blog, we answer some of your questions about toothaches to help you get a pain-free smile.
What is a toothache?
A toothache is any sensation that causes pain or discomfort in or around a tooth. Tooth pain can result for many reasons, including:
- Thinning tooth enamel
- Sinus infections
- Tooth decay (cavities)
- Gum disease (which, shockingly, almost half of American adults have!)
- External trauma
What are the symptoms of a toothache?
The symptoms of a toothache can include:
- Pain or discomfort in or around the affected tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Red and swollen gums
- Fever
- Jaw, face, and head pain
- Cheeks that feel warm to the touch
What causes toothaches?
Dental pain can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Cavities
- Dental damage (like a cracked tooth)
- Damaged dental restorations (like a filling or crown)
- Dental abscesses (infections)
- Trauma
- Gum disease
- Sensitivity to whitening treatments
- Oral cancer
How can I prevent dental pain?
You can prevent toothaches by practicing good oral hygiene, including:
- Brushing your teeth after meals (or twice a day)
- Flossing daily
- Limiting acidic and sweet treats
- Wearing a mouthguard at night or during high-contact sports
- Visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings
How can I treat a toothache at home?
You can try treating tooth pain at home by:
- Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater every two hours
- Taking over-the-counter pain medications
- Applying a cold compress to the affected area
- Chewing on the opposite side of the pain
However, it is important to see a dentist if the pain persists or becomes severe.
How can a dentist treat tooth pain?
A dentist can treat the underlying cause of the pain and treat it accordingly. This may include:
- Filling a cavity
- Repairing dental damage
- Performing a root canal
- Extracting the affected tooth
Can a toothache go away on its own?
A toothache may go away on its own, but it is rare. So, dentists do not recommend ignoring dental pain for too long. If left untreated, the underlying cause of the pain can worsen and lead to more serious dental problems.
Can dental pain be a sign of something more serious?
Yes, a toothache can be a sign of something more serious, such as:
- An abscessed tooth
- Advanced gum disease
- Oral cancer
It is important to see a dentist as soon as possible if you are experiencing even mild tooth pain.
Treat Dental Pain in Oak Park, IL
Are you experiencing frequent tooth pain that disrupts your daily life? Let Dr. Thomas Wegner at Town & Country Dental in Oak Park, IL, help. Get started with our compassionate team today by requesting an appointment online here or by calling (708) 383-0330.