In general dentistry, tooth pain is a common problem that individuals deal with. Oftentimes, pain is the result of a different problem; however, the average person is not likely to be able to know what that problem is. Of course, the help of a general dentist will be required at some point. Nonetheless, it is not always possible to get to the dental office right away, which is why it can be good to know how to deal with tooth pain when it arises. Be sure to speak with a dentist as soon as you can.
Outlined below are a few tips on tooth pain that are recommended to follow in general dentistry. Reviewing these tips can be quite helpful to individuals who are experiencing an aching tooth.
One tip that is recommended in general dentistry for tooth pain is using a cold compress. A cold compress may be an ice pack or cooled washcloth. The cold can help ease any discomfort in the area of the toothache, as well as help to numb it. Cold compresses should be used in 15-minute increments to avoid freezing.
When a toothache is present, it is also advised to avoid chewing with that tooth. Any additional force or pressure that is put on the tooth can make the pain worse, as well as potentially create another problem. Using the other teeth or simply consuming softer items is a good idea.
In general dentistry, over-the-counter pain relievers are often recommended, especially when there is tooth pain that cannot be immediately resolved. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help to rid the tooth of pain even temporarily. It is recommended to take these medications with food or a heavy liquid to avoid any stomach aches later on. Additionally, it is important to know that over-the-counter pain medications should not be taken for multiple days on end. They are to be used as a temporary fix.
Saltwater is a natural and safe way to rinse the oral cavity without causing irritation. In the case of tooth pain, the saltwater can kill any bacteria that may be causing the discomfort. Bacteria often results in an infection, which can show itself through pain. While rinsing with salt water may not completely rid the tooth of pain, it will help to reduce any bacteria remnants that could be contributing.
Although the tips above can be useful for toothaches, ultimately it is best to visit a general dentistry practice for an evaluation and examination. Tooth pain almost always means that there is a bigger problem, such as an infection in the actual tooth or in the area. Any infection requires the immediate attention of a general dentist. To find out more about managing tooth pain or how it is handled in general dentistry, reach out today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.yourhuntsvilledentist.com or call René A. Talbot, DDS at (256) 382-6690 for an appointment in our Huntsville office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry in Huntsville, AL.
General dentistry consists of a lot of routine oral health care, which also happens to include restoring teeth that are in bad shape due to damage. Common damage may include cracks, chips, or cavities, all of which can be addressed with the help of different dental restorations. Continue reading to find out what dental restoration…
A general dentist performs most of the treatments commonly used in dentistry. These oral professionals spend most of their time performing preventative treatments, like tooth cleanings, but they also perform more complex treatments, like root canals. A general dentist also serves as an educator, teaching patients how to properly take care of their teeth and…
Considering cosmetic dental work from a general dentist? Although cosmetic dentistry is its own field, general dentists also offer an array of procedures that can be used to improve the way that the teeth look. There are a lot of different procedures that can be performed in a general dentistry setting. Keep reading to find…
Curious about what is covered under general dentistry? General dentistry offices house the dentists that focus on primary dental care for patients of all ages. They are responsible for helping patients maintain good oral and dental health, while also being able to diagnose, manage and treat problems such as cavities and toothaches.One question that comes…
Lumineers® are a type of veneers that do not require the removal of significant amounts of teeth enamel prior to their installation. Veneers are thin shells that are cemented to the front part of a person’s teeth. These restorations serve as masks, hiding defects and flaws on teeth they are cemented on.Veneers are designed to…
A regular dental cleaning is vital for maintaining optimal oral health. While many people understand the importance of these appointments, the specifics of what happens during dental cleanings may remain a bit mysterious.In this review, we discuss the procedure of a typical dental cleaning, providing insight into the process and highlighting its significance in preventive…