Toothache: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment
If you’ve ever had a toothache, you’re not likely to forget how it felt. Tooth pain can be sharp, dull, or throbbing. It may be constant or come and go. Sometimes teeth only hurt when pressure is applied; other times they cause unrelenting misery. If your tooth is infected, you may also have a fever, headache, and a foul taste or smell in your mouth. A toothache can be caused by a number of things including abscessed or infected teeth, extensive tooth decay, fractures, damaged fillings, injuries, teeth grinding, and gum infection. Regardless of its cause, when you have a toothache, all you care about is getting relief.
Your Dentist Can Provide Toothache Relief
After performing a thorough examination and any needed x-rays, your dentist in Virginia can determine the underlying cause of your tooth pain, and develop a treatment plan to address it. He or she can also provide medications to help provide toothache relief. It’s especially important to see your dentist as soon as possible if your tooth pain has lasted more than two days, it is severe, or you have fever, ear pain, or pain when you open your mouth. Untreated dental infections can spread to the face, skull, and even the bloodstream, and this can have devastating consequences.
Treating and Preventing Tooth Pain
If a cavity or severe injury is the source of your pain, your dentist may fill or extract your tooth. Infections of a tooth’s nerve may require a root canal procedure. If the infection is accompanied by fever or jaw swelling, you may receive antibiotics. In some cases, cold-laser phototherapy may help relieve inflammation and tooth pain. Because most toothaches are ultimately caused by tooth decay, the best prevention is strict oral hygiene and regular professional care. Brush twice daily and floss once per day. Keep your dental check-up and cleaning appointments. If you tend to experience excessive tooth decay, ask your dentist about dental sealants to help protect your teeth.
To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Virginia, call Dental One Associates of Virginia today at or make an appointment.
Dental One Associates offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Virginia. With 5 affiliated practices throughout Virginia, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Dental One Associates of Virginia, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Dental One Associates of Virginia.
