We understand the discomfort of a toothache and offer prompt relief through our expert dental care.
What Is a Toothache?
A toothache is a sensation of pain or discomfort in or around a tooth. It can vary in intensity, from a dull ache to sharp, intense pain. Toothaches are often caused by dental issues such as tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, infections, or dental trauma. The pain from a toothache can radiate to the surrounding areas, including the jaw, face, or even the head, making it quite uncomfortable.
How Do Dentists Treat Toothaches?
Dentists treat toothaches by first diagnosing the underlying cause of the pain and then providing appropriate treatment. The specific approach will depend on the nature and severity of the issue causing the toothache.
Examination and Diagnosis
The dentist will start by examining the affected tooth and taking X-rays if necessary. This helps identify the cause of the toothache, such as cavities, infections, gum disease, or dental trauma.
Pain Relief
If the toothache is causing severe pain, the dentist may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the discomfort while addressing the underlying issue.
Treating Dental Decay
If the toothache is due to a cavity or dental decay, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill it with dental materials like composite resin or amalgam.
Root Canal Therapy
If the tooth’s pulp (innermost part) is infected or damaged, a root canal procedure might be necessary. This involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canals, and sealing the space to prevent further infection.
Treatment for Gum Disease
If gum disease is causing the toothache, the dentist may recommend deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums.
Extraction
In cases where a tooth is severely damaged and cannot be saved, the dentist might recommend extracting the tooth to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.
Prescribing Antibiotics
If the toothache is caused by an infection, the dentist might prescribe antibiotics to help control the infection before performing any necessary procedures.
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Your Relief Is Our Priority at Moorooka Dental Care
We understand that toothaches can be distressing, and we’re here to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Our team will guide you through the process, explaining your options and ensuring you’re at ease during your treatment.
Trust Moorooka Dental Care to provide you with the relief you need from toothache discomfort.
Home Remedies for Toothache
While home remedies can provide temporary relief for toothache discomfort, it’s important to remember that they are not a substitute for professional dental care. If you’re experiencing a toothache, it’s best to consult a dentist to address the underlying issue. However, here are some home remedies that might help alleviate mild toothache discomfort until you can see a dentist:
Saltwater Rinse
Mix half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Gently swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can help reduce inflammation and clean the area around the affected tooth.
Cold Compress
Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes. This can help numb the area and reduce swelling.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Non-prescription pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Panadol can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage on the label.
Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse
Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water. Gently swish the solution in your mouth for a minute before spitting it out. This can help disinfect the area.
Can a Toothache Go Away on Its Own?
A toothache might temporarily subside on its own, especially if it’s caused by a minor issue like sensitivity to hot or cold foods. However, it’s important to note that a toothache is often a sign of an underlying dental problem, and it’s unlikely to completely go away without proper treatment.
If the toothache is caused by more serious issues like dental decay, infection, gum disease, or dental trauma, it’s unlikely that it will go away on its own. These conditions can worsen over time, leading to increased pain, potential complications, and damage to your oral health.
It’s always recommended to consult a dentist if you’re experiencing a toothache. A dental professional can diagnose the cause of the pain, provide appropriate treatment, and prevent further complications. Ignoring a toothache or relying solely on home remedies can lead to more severe issues down the line, so it’s best to address the problem promptly with professional dental care.
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Where to find us
Moorooka Dental Care
Shop C, 132 Beaudesert Road,
Moorooka QLD 4105
Tel: (07) 3848 3193
Public Transport:
From the city to Moorooka Dental Care, you may hop on the buses with numbers 110/125/115 /124. If you are travelling from the south side, you may take the buses with the numbers 110/115/117/124/125.
Our practice is 1.9km from the Moorooka train station.
