Toothaches are not only painful, but they can be indicative of a serious oral health issue that needs prompt attention from a dentist. February 9 is National Toothache Day, and it is the perfect time to brush up on some basic facts and information about toothaches. Below is some information your dentist wants you to know.

At-Home Relief

A toothache can signal any number of potential problems, from worn enamel or a small cavity on the minor end of things to an abscess or damage to the root canal on the more serious end. But if a toothache strikes in the middle of the night or early on a Sunday morning, a trip to the dentist may have to wait. For at-home relief, try rinsing your mouth thoroughly with warm salt water. Apply an ice pack as necessary to ease discomfort and reduce any swelling that might be present. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever for additional alleviation.

Natural Remedies

Natural remedies likely won't cure a toothache, but they can make it easier to bear until such a time that you can see a dentist. A few dabs of clove oil on a cotton swab applied directly to the tooth often numbs the area and makes the pain more tolerable. Peppermint is also excellent for toothache pain; park some mint leaves in your mouth up against the afflicted tooth, or sip on some peppermint tea.

See a Dentist

Always see a dentist for toothache pain. They will review your symptoms with you and perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause and develop a treatment plan. When a toothache strikes, never put off a dental exam for any longer than is absolutely necessary. Failing to act could lead to further tooth damage, infection, an increase in pain, and difficulty eating or swallowing.

Understanding some essential toothache care can better protect you when the pain of a dental issue becomes difficult to manage. Dentist James P. Driskell, D.M.D., and his team at Anchorage Dental Center are here to help. They have more than 25 years' experience providing the Anchorage, Alaska, area with all manner of dental care, including exams, implants, crowns, fillings, and teeth cleanings. Call (907) 278-2521, visit their website, or message them on Facebook to schedule an appointment today.