Toothache 101 and Remedies

Ever been struck by a toothache?  If not consider yourself lucky, because they are nothing but pain and misery.  A toothache is usually caused

when the central region of the tooth, known as the pulp, becomes irritated or inflamed.  The pulp is the location of several nerve endings, therefore, inflammation and injury near the pulp causes a great deal of pain.  Tooth extraction can also result in tooth aches that often have to be relieved by prescribed medications.

Toothaches are often confused with ear aches that can radiate down to the jaw, however, a few symptoms more closely related to toothaches can include:

• Sensitivity to hot or cold food
• Bleeding and swelling of the gums
• Pain when chewing foods
• Decay and cavities due to all the candy from the last few days

Remedies & Prevention

So the toothache’s killing you and your wondering what to do?  Here are a few great remedies that can help relieve toothaches:

• First and foremost, correct your diet.  Tooth decay is often caused by refined carbohydrates and sugars.  These sugars combine with calcium in the enamel after they are broken down by bacteria in the mouth and cause decay.  If you excessively consume candy, pastries, soft drinks, and other sweets than seriously consider changing your diet to avoid toothaches, especially if they have become a regular part of your day.
• Try soaking cotton in clove oil and then gently biting on it.  The clove oil has antiseptic properties and helps fight the infection while also relieving pain.
• Try washing your mouth out with salt water, depending on the type of pain you may have.  Adding pepper also seems to help some.
• Try using ice to reduce swelling and relieve pain
• Like liquor?  Soaking a cotton ball in brandy and pressing it against the aching region can help numb the pain.
• Mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with one glass of warm water.  Gargle it for 30-45 seconds.  The baking soda neutralizes acids and temporarily relieves pain.
• Also try over the counter pain medicines such as Tylenol or Advil.  A personal favorite is Orajel, it quickly numbs the area causing discomfort.
• Other remedies include placing a cucumber slice over the affected area, using vanilla extract, or Oil of Oregano.
• Please not if your toothache continues to exist after a few days SEE A TRAINED PROFESSIONAL IMMEDIATELY.

Prevention
Its basically everything the dentist always told you.  Try to steer clear of excessive indulgence in sweets and junk food.  Brush your tooh in the morning and before bed especially after a late dinner.   Fluoride is also very helpful in preventing tooth decay especially in younger children.  It can be found in toothpastes, a variety of fruits and vegetables, and especially in water.

A variety of tips can also be found at The American Dental Association website.

Keep those teeth clean and if you need any further assistance, or have any comments, suggestions, or tips of your own please feel free to comment!!

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