Toothache
Toothache or dental pain can be caused by anything from a broken or cracked tooth to a filling falling out, an infection in the gum, an abscess or even a wisdom tooth coming through. The most common cause, however, is dental decay. Sometimes the pain starts as an increased sensitivity when eating certain foods (e.g. something sweet, very cold or very hot). This is a sign that the pulp inside the tooth €“ where the nerves are €“ has become irritated. If the decay is not corrected, it can progress to pain that is felt even when not eating. Over-the-counter oral analgesics can be recommended to help relieve the pain of toothache until the person can see a dentist. Rinsing with warm salt water can also help, as can applying a topical OTC pain relieving product containing a local anaesthetic, such as benzocaine (e.g. Orajel Dental Gel).
Self-care tips: oral care
- Practise good oral hygiene €“ brush teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, use a fluoride mouthwash and floss teeth daily
- Get regular dental check ups (how regular will depend on a dentist's recommendation)
- Limit snacking, particularly on sugary foods and drinks
- Stop smoking
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables
- Avoid damage to the inside of the mouth by using a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Change toothbrushes/brush heads every three months
- Dentures and braces should fit well, be checked regularly and cleaned thoroughly
- In cases of mouth ulcers, avoid foods that may damage or irritate the mouth. These include things like hard foods (crisps, crusty bread, etc), acidic foods (e.g. citrus fruits) and hot, spicy dishes. Allow hot foods (e.g. soups) and drinks to cool before consuming them, and use a straw to drink cold drinks to bypass mouth ulcers at the front of the mouth
- Consider fluoride supplements or mouth rinses for children at risk of dental decay
- Consider an antiseptic product (e.g. containing chlorhexidine) to help treat and prevent gingivitis.