What to do when you have a toothache

There are few pains that rank as high as a bad tooth ache - maybe migraines, childbirth or kidney stones? They can truly be debilitating, and I've seen people try many things when they are desperate for relief.

It's important to understand when you have a toothache there are two major causes - nerve pain, coming from a tooth that is cracked or decayed but the nerve inside the tooth is still alive, and infection pain, where bacteria in and around the tooth has caused an infection in the soft tissue or bone.

Nerve pain, while less dangerous to your health, can be harder to treat without a visit to the dentist. If there's a cavity that is exposed, sometimes covering the hole with a temporary filling material can help shield it from cold. Alternating Tylenol and ibuprofen can also help.

If the pain is from infection, an antibiotic will usually help after a few days and keep the swelling from getting worse. However, with tooth infections, once you go off the antibiotic is only a matter of time before the infection becomes symptomatic again.

For most severe toothaches the tooth will need a root canal or extraction to permanently cure it.

Whatever you do, don't put aspirin, Goody's powder, or hold alcohol on hurting tooth. While it may numb the pain for a few seconds, it can also cause a chemical burn on your gums that will end up hurting worse.

The most important thing to do when you have a toothache is catch it early. People often say a tooth has bothered them for months before finally causing a major toothache. With early treatment you are more likely to be able to save the tooth, and with less expensive treatments, than if you wait until it becomes unbearable.

If you have a toothache, call Upcountry Dental in Seneca, SC today for an emergency appointment. We can come up with a diagnosis and a treatment plan to that will get you back smiling.