At some point during their lifetimes, most people will experience a toothache. While the pain may be a mild annoyance, it’s usually a sign of an underlying dental problem. For that reason, it’s best to acknowledge your symptoms as soon as they occur and seek necessary treatment. In honor of National Toothache Day on February 9th, here are a few important details every dentist wants their patients to know about this common issue.

What Causes a Toothache?

In general, toothaches usually occur when the nerves inside a tooth become irritated or inflamed. In some cases, toothaches are a brief flare-up of dental sensitivity. This issue happens after several years of ongoing enamel erosion that has left dentin, the nerve-filled portion of the tooth, exposed. When extreme temperatures, sugar, and air pressure hit the tooth, momentary discomfort may occur.

Tooth decay is another common cause of dental pain. It occurs when acids from bacteria and foods wear away at the enamel, eventually causing damage to the tooth structure. Early on, this damage may form a cavity, and without treatment, it may progress and eventually cause the tooth to become infected.

Other toothaches may develop as a result of excessive pressure on the tooth. For example, individuals with crowded teeth, nighttime grinding, or impacted wisdom teeth will often develop discomfort.

How Can You Ease Dental Pain at Home?

If you want immediate relief from a toothache, over-the-counter pain relievers can ease inflammation and take pressure off of sensitive areas of the tooth. Ice application is another easy way to quickly reduce blood circulation and minimize swelling.

When the pain makes it too difficult to brush properly, consider rinsing with a warm saltwater mix. This simple solution will help remove bacteria to keep the tooth clean and reduce the risk of infection.

Do You Need to See a Dentist for a Toothache?

Although some toothaches may seem like minor inconveniences, it’s a good idea to talk to a trusted dentist about the issue. With the help of dental x-rays, these professionals can quickly determine the pain’s source.

If an underlying problem is causing the pain, your dentist will provide treatments, such as a filling or root canal, to sterilize the affected area, relieve discomfort, and support healing. When sensitivity is to blame, your dentist may prescribe the use of desensitizing toothpaste that can reduce nerve activity within the tooth.

If you don’t want to wait to address a toothache, turn to the dentists at Gleason Dental Clinic in Beatrice, NE, for relief. Equipped with the industry’s latest tools, their team of experts will accurately diagnose the source of your pain and develop a safe and effective treatment plan to safeguard your smile. These professionals serve patients of all ages with teeth cleaning, fillings, bridges, and crowns. Send a message online or call (402) 228-3119 to schedule an appointment.