Toothache

A toothache is usually the result of a cavity formed by the bacteria that cause tooth decay (known medically as dental caries). Cleaning out and filling the cavity brings a quick end to the pain. Without this treatment, however, the pain is likely to get worse.

What is it?

Toothache or tooth pain is caused when the nerve root of a tooth is irritated. Dental (tooth) infection, decay, injury, or loss of a tooth are the most common causes of dental pain. Pain may also occur after an extraction (tooth is pulled out). Pain sometimes originates from other areas and radiates to the jaw, thus appearing to be tooth pain. The most common areas include the jaw joint, ear pain, and even occasional heart problems.

What causes it?

Toothache occurs from inflammation of the central portion of the tooth called pulp. The pulp contains nerve endings that are very sensitive to pain. Inflammation to the pulp or pulpitis may be caused by dental cavities, trauma, and infection. Referred pain from the jaw may cause you to have symptoms of toothache.

What are the symptoms?

  • Pain with chewing.
  • Hot or cold sensitivity.
  • Bleeding or discharge from around a tooth or gums.
  • Swelling around a tooth or swelling of your jaw.
  • Injury or trauma to the area.

Are there any natural therapies?

  • Horseradish & garlic may be of assistance to reduce the congestion of sinusitis and thereby relieve pressure on the teeth.
  • Calcium chewed will help keep the teeth healthy.

What else can I do?

Ensure that you visit your dentist regularly to ensure healthy teeth. Sucking on ice whilst you have a tooth ache may help to relieve the pain. Maintain a healthy diet. Bacteria thrive on refined sugar and starch and need this in order to burrow through the enamel on your teeth. Watch what you eat and be careful about food that sticks to and between your teeth. Brush your teeth after eating or add foods in your diet with some roughage that may act as a natural toothbrush. End your meal with a salad or apple.

Did you know?

The main cause of toothache is tooth decay, which results from a faulty diet. Perhaps the greatest curse and cause of tooth decay is the consumption of sweets, soft drinks, pastries, refined carbohydrates and sugar in all forms. Bacteria in the mouth breaks sugar down into acids, which combine with the calcium in the enamel to cause decay or erosion.