Having a toothache is no fun. It’s also a pretty stressful problem to have. If you’re like most people, you don’t love having to see the dentist when it seems as though a tooth may require repair, even if that repair is a simple filling.

We understand the hesitancy that people feel about scheduling a dental appointment for a toothache. Here, we discuss why you absolutely should do that sooner rather than later.

 

What Defines A Toothache?

A toothache is any type of pain that occurs in or around a tooth. There are a handful of factors that can contribute to the onset of a toothache. While professional care is usually needed, there may be a small number of minor toothaches that may be treated with home remedies. The trick is to know how to tell the difference between a benign toothache and one that will worsen if you don’t see the dentist relatively soon. As a general rule of thumb, we encourage patients to come see us if pain does not respond to over-the-counter medication or, even if medication soothes the toothache, if it lasts for more than 2 days.

Common causes of toothaches include:

  • Tooth decay
  • An accumulation of food or debris between teeth
  • Damaged filling
  • Fractured tooth
  • Gum infection or disease
  • Excessive grinding or clenching
  • Abscessed tooth

Any one of these conditions could lead to throbbing, sharp, or persistent tooth pain. Discomfort may occur only when biting or chewing, or it may be present all the time. Because it is difficult to know what is behind a toothache, the best form of management is to start with a thorough dental exam.

If tooth pain is very minor and has just started, it may help to rinse the mouth with warm salty water. The teeth should be brushed gently and flossed to see if pain is related to trapped food particles. If, beyond that, tooth pain continues, schedule your appointment with the dentist.

Find Relief Now

No one likes being in pain. The longer a toothache persists without attention, the more stress it will cause. Our team is aware of how unnerving a toothache can be. We work quickly to restore comfort and address the underlying issue using the most conservative techniques possible.

Contact our Aventura, FL dental office at 305-933-2501 to schedule your exam for tooth pain. If necessary, we will do our best to fit you in for same-day care.