As said by Miguel de Cervantes
Diamonds can be bought, teeth cannot. Tooths are difficult to damage, once damaged; Is it difficult to stop the pain, We are realizing the same in our this article. Hope it helps you out.
A person suffering from tooth pain idealizes to kill tooth pain nerve in 3 seconds permanently because it is among the severest of the severe pain.
It significantly affects daily life activities from Speaking to Sleep, impacting everything and hence leads to immerse discomfort. A person may have to avoid certain foods and drinks that further exacerbate tooth pain leading to overall decline in human well being.
Importance of addressing tooth pain promptly and effectively
Addressing tooth pain is important because either delaying or ignoring the tooth pain can cause severe complications such as infections etc. and expensive treatments are required to overcome them.
Its as simple as “ Isn’t it necessary to come back to your normal life”
Understanding Tooth Pain
Common Causes of Tooth Pain
The very common cause of the tooth pain is damage of the nerves surrounding the tooth which might be because of cavities, Infection or other variety of reasons. It might be because of Temporomandibular joint disorder where in the joints of the mouth does not properly work because of dislocation or Bruxism where a patient generally unconsciously grinds the teeth leading to the sensitivity and pain in the tooth.
(1). Tooth decay
Dental caries and cavities, also known as tooth decay, is generally caused by the bacteria.
Where does that bacteria come from?
The primary reason is the unhygienic conditions of the mouth, if the remains of the food remain inside the mouth for long time of hours, it creates bacteria within such food particles because of constant breathing. Eventually it turns into acid decaying the tooth enamel and forming the cavities within the teeth.
(2). Gum disease
Periodontics, also known as a Gum Disease, affects the areas of the mouth surrounding the teeth and bones around the teeth primarily targeting the gums. It might be from mild inflammation (Gingivitis) to other severe forms.
This disease is caused by a variety of reasons such as use of tobacco, genetic causes, Poor Oral Hygiene, other forms of medical conditions as well as hormonal changes.
Stages of Gum Diseases
There are typically two stages of the Gum Diseases.
- Gingivitis
The earliest stages of the Gum Diseases is Gingivitis that involves inflammation and redness of the gums which could be reversible.
- Periodontitis
The later stage of Gingivitis that is more severe in nature is Periodontitis wherein the inner layer of the Gum pulled away from the teeth leaving the area in between the teeth and Gum. This area is filled with infection and may cause bleeding as well.
- Tooth fractures
Cracks on the tooth are called Tooth Fractures that can be from minor fractures to major ones. It changes the normal structures of tooth may lead to sensitivity and other tooth related problems.
There are four types of the tooth fractures
- Craze Lines: These are very small cracks that affect the area outside the enamel.
- Fractured Cusp: When a piece of tooth chewing surface is fractured then it is called as fractured cusp.
- Fractured tooth: When a piece of tooth is fractured not the only upper aerie. cusp but also extends to the below part i.e. toward the root then it is called a fractured tooth.
- Split tooth: When there is a long term fracture on the tooth, it splits into two parts, then it is called as a Split Tooth.
- Sinus infections
Sinuses infection can cause pain in the teeths because of two reasons.
- Anatomical Proximity: Because of the close proximity of the upper jaw in the sinuses infection, it can cause pain in the upper teeths.
- Shared Nerve Pathway: Because of sinus infection of sinus, if the nerve shares a common pathway then it may cause pain in the teeths.
- Grinding teeth (bruxism)
It’s a condition where a person unconsciously grinds and clenches its teeth. It can occur when a person is awake i.e. Awake Bruxism or at the time of Sleep i.e. Sleep Bruxism.
Types of Tooth Pain
(a). Sharp vs. dull pain
Sharp pain is the sudden and intense pain in the tooth area which is nearly unbearable whereas the dull pain is more continuous but has an effect of aching sensation.
Example:
Cracked teeth if infected root would cause a sharp pain whereas mild cavities may sometimes cause dull pain.
(b). Acute vs. chronic pain
There are certain pains that are temporary in nature that is called an acute pain such as in case of tooth extraction the patient may suffer from acute pain whereas in case of long term pain i.e. chronic pain, it takes time to recover from the throbbing pain i.e. in case of disease like TMJ.
Symptoms associated with different types of pain:
Typically there are different symptoms associated in accordance with the sort of disease patient is suffering through.
Generally the symptoms includes the following.
- Swelling and Inflammation in the tooth area
- Fever
- Sleep Disturbance
- Sensitivity in the teeth
- Disturbance in food or water intake
- Redness of the Gums
- Jaw Pain
- Ear ache or Headache
What kills tooth pain instantly: Quick Fixes for Tooth Pain
(1). Topical Treatments
(a). Over-the-counter numbing gels
There are several numbing gels that are readily available in the market that have an anesthetic effect and could prevent the pain in the area as a quick fix such as Benzocaine etc.
(b). Essential oils like clove oil:
Certain oils such as clove oil has a compound called as eugenol, which as anti inflammatory and antiseptic effect. It prevents inflammation and numbs the pain in the region.
- Application: Apply clove oil through swab or cotton ball in the affected area.
- Dilution: For People who are sensitive to Clove oil, dilute the clove oil with other oils such as olive oil, coconut oil and then apply in the affected area.
- Clove Oil Paste: Grind the Clove leaves with few drops of olive oil and apply in affected area.
(c). Elevate the Head
The elevation of your head method reduces the flow of blood to the paining area and helps to reduce the pain.
Whether you use the extra pillows on the Bed, or adjust the bed in case of adjustable bed or Recliner chair, all are helpful in reducing the pain in tooth.
(d). Ice packs and their proper application
Ice packs are an effective methods for reducing the tooth pain in the area as it has anti-inflammation, numbing, Limiting edema formation properties which helps to decrease metabolic activity and limits the production of the fluids in the area.
- Application: Apply the ice cubes by putting them into the towel or thin cloth, so it just gives the cold effect over the affected area rather than frosting to the skin.
(2). Home remedies for killing nerve in tooth
As said by the Paracelsus “The art of healing comes from nature, not from the physician. Therefore, the physician must start from nature, with an open mind.” Home remedies are usually proved beneficial with comparable less side effects.
In case of Tooth pain, the patient sometimes suffers through unbearable pain. So the first thing a patient can do is to apply home remedies for immediate relief. It can be done in various way but some of the ways are as follows.
(a). Saltwater rinse
Salt water rinse is an affected way to reduce the pain.
Steps
Following are the steps that are required to be followed:
- Mix- Dissolve the 1/1.5tablespoon salt in the warm water
- Rinse: Swish the solution in mouth for 30 seconds
- Spit: Spit it out and do not swallow it
(b). Baking soda paste
Baking Soda also has antibacterial qualities and neutralize the acids in mouth that help in preventing the pain.
- Mix- Form a Paste by mixing the baking soda with small amount of water.
- Apply: Use a cotton swab or fingers to apply on the teeths and gums.
- Rinse: Leave it for few minutes and then rinse through water.
(c). Garlic and its antibacterial properties:
Garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties reducing tooth decay and pain.
- Crush- Crush the Garlic until it forms a paste.
- Apply: Use a cotton swab or fingers to apply the crushed garlic on the teeths and gums.
- Chew and Rinse: Chew a Garlic clove to release the pain and leave it for a few minutes and then rinse through water.
(3). Herbal Solutions
Herbal solutions have been a very productive tools to resolve the tooth pain and provide the relief to the patient.
(a). Peppermint tea bags
Peppermint contains Menthol which reduces the pain and inflammation in the effective area.
Application:Put the peppermint tea bag in the hot water, then take it out from the water after few minutes and allow it to be warm, after it gets the warm apply on the effected areas.
(b). Turmeric and its anti-inflammatory benefits
Turmeric is the natural antioxidant and helps to reduce the pain
Application
- Crush- Mic the Turmeric Powder with a small amount of water until it forms a paste.
- Apply: Use a cotton swab or fingers to apply the crushed paste on the teeths and gums.
- Chew and Rinse: Leave it for a few minutes and then rinse the mouth through water.
Long-term Solutions: Permanent Pain Relief
Tooth pain relief mechanism also involves certain dental treatments to get relief against the pain. These treatments are usually the permanent solution and remedy against the pains. These are as follows.
(1). Dental Treatments
Here are some dental treatments that are usually used to prevent the pain:
(a). Fillings and crowns for tooth decay
- Filings are used to treat the cavities if the tooth has been decayed. This decayed portion of the teeth is removed and the teeth are filled with such a material such as resin, amalgam etc.
- Crown on the other hand is hard material which is placed over the teeth when it has been severely decayed so that its structure and strength is restored.
Procedure to be followed incase of Filing and Crown.
Its procedure involves the four steps:
- X-Ray: First X-Ray is done to analyze how much of the teeth has been decayed.
- Removal of the decay: After the X-Ray Decayed part is removed by a special instrument and teeth are cleaned.
- Filing: Then Filing is filed in the decayed teeth for the teeth to regain its structure
- Crown: Under special circumstances when the decay does not affect only the teeth but also the outer part of the teeth , it is difficult for a teeth to regain its structure completely by filling the crown is placed.
(b). Root canal therapy for infected nerves
When the decay is not only caused to teeth but also to the roots, and it has caused infection in there, so usually the Root Canal Therapy is used to remove the infected pulp for which a procedure is followed as under:
- X-Ray: First X-Ray is done to analyze how much of the teeth has been decayed.
- Anesthesia: Local Anesthesia is given to numb the place.
- Removal of the Pulp: Now the defected pulp is removed by a special instrument
- Cleaning: Now the inner part is cleaned thoroughly
- Filing: Then cleaned canals are filled with biocompatible material and sealed to prevent infection.
- Restoration: Teeth are restored to the original condition by filing and crown placement.
(c). Extraction procedures in severe cases
Extraction is a procedure followed from the removal of the socket from the bone. The procedure is used when the teeth are severely damaged and it is a threat that it will cause damage and infection to other teeths.
Procedure
- X-Ray: First X-Ray is done to analyze how much of the teeth has been decayed.
- Anesthesia: Local Anesthesia is given to numb the place.
- Extraction: Teeth is Extracted, firstly by carefully loosing then completely extracting the teeth.
- Post Extraction: Post the extraction specific care is to be done by the patient, as bleeding is controlled by the gauze, to promote healing.
(2). Lifestyle Changes
Making certain changes in Lifestyle always affect significantly and always prove beneficial for the health of the teeth.
(a). Dietary adjustments to reduce tooth decay
There certain diets that are to be followed and certain diets that are to be avoided to reduce tooth decay. These Include as follows
(b). Limit the Sugar, Acidic Foods and Drink
Sugar, Acidic Foods and Drinks are the major cause of the Tooth decay and if taken further further exploits the oral hygiene so it’s better to limit the use of these three.
(c). Teeth Friendly Food
It is recommended to use the teeth friendly foods such as dairy products such as milk, yogurt etc. that include calcium to gain strength in the teeth. Along with that seeds and Nuts are also recommended.
(d). Importance of hydration
Neutralizing the acids in the mouth is necessary for overall oral hygiene. This neutralization can only be done by Drinking plenty of water which thus produces saliva in the mouth to produce the results.
Thus it is necessary
- Drink at least 8 glass of water a Day
- Limit the use of Beverages i.e. Alcohol that causes dehydration
- Sometimes using a Humidifier etc.
(e). Maintaining good oral hygiene practices
Some of the Oral Hygiene Practices uses
- Drink at least 8 glass of water a day
- Flossing removes the particles of the food that are left in the mouth so try to do it daily
- Brush your teeth
- At Least brush your teeth twice a day to prevent the teeth from decaying
- Replace your toothbrush
- Replace your toothbrush after every 3 months
- Dental check up
- From time to time visit the dental doctor for your checkup
- Avoid Tobacco Products
- Smoking and other tobacco products can increase the risk of decay thereof it is to be avoided.
(3). Regular Dental Check-ups
Like said before Regular dental care is necessary for maintaining the health of the teeths. Regular check ups allow the dentist to detect and address the problem early.
(a). Importance of preventive care
Preventive dental care is necessary for preventing the problems related to the teeths to become more severe. Preventive care includes fluoride treatment, professional cleaning as well as proper education on hygiene practices/
(b). Recommended frequency for check-ups
Generally frequency may vary from individual to individual depending on the needs but it is recommended to visit a dental doctor at least once in a six month.
(4). What to expect during a dental exam
During a dental checkup following things are to be expected.
(1). Examination
- Visual Inspection: The dentist will usually inspect the teeth, gums, cavities, etc.
- X-Ray: X-Rays are to be done in case of the decay of the teeth
(2). Professional Cleaning through Scaling and Polishing
Scaling is a procedure where the dentist remove the layer of plaque around the gum whereas polishing is a procedure in which teeths are polished to remove the stains.
(3). Evaluation and Recommendation
Dentists will assess overall oral health and act accordingly according to the advice of your dentist.
Exploring Advanced Techniques for Pain Management
Prescription Medications
For the pain management there are four medication tat are generally recommended
- Analgesics: Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen medication are generally used to moderate the pain in the teeths
- Opioids: For severe pain opioids such as codeine and hydrocodone are generally prescribed.
- Antibiotics: If the pain is caused by an infection, antibiotics are recommended.
When to consult with a dentist or physician
It is necessary to consult a Dentist In any of the event as follows:
- Persistent Pain
- Severe Pain which is intense and throbbing
- Infection symptoms such as swelling around the gums area
- In case of Side Effect caused by any medication prescribed by Doctor
- Examination of cavities and other conditions by individual self.
Nerve Treatment Options
Understanding dental nerve damage
Dental Nerve Damages can be caused by number of the reasons, it can either by certain diseases, infection or even by dental procedures.
Symptoms:
The symptom includes a very intense, shoo-in and a sharp pain, prolonged sensitivity in the damaged area. Moving from jaw to ear
Procedures to help manage or eliminate nerve pain
There are four procedures generally done
1- Root Canal Therapy
This includes the removal of the infected or damaged nerve tissue from the area and disinfecting the root canal and further prevention through sealing
2- Pulpotomy:
Likewise Root Canal, this is done on children which involves eradicating the relevant portion of the nerve that is damaged.
3- Apexification
It involved the calcified barrier which is placed on the tip of the root allowing proper root canal to be filled in case of incomplete development of root canal.
4- Extraction
Where it deem impossible that infection can be removed teeth is to be extracted for further preventing the infection
Alternative Therapies
Acupuncture and its effects on pain relief
Acupuncture is a treatment that is done usually in conjunction with other treatments in it, thin needles are inserted on specific points which stimulate the nerves, thus reducing the tooth pain by increasing the blood flow and reducing the inflammation.
Chiropractic care for referred pain
This care is usually adopted when pain is referred to the area of the jaw because of misalignment of the spine or the neck.
When to Seek Professional Help
Signs that you need to see a dentist immediately
Following are the symptoms when it is required to see the doctor immediately
- Severe Toothache
- Swelling and Inflammation
- Fever
- Pus or Discharge
- Sensitivity to the temperature
- Loosen or broken teeth
- Bleeding of the Gums
- Difficulty opening the mouth
Understanding dental emergencies
Following are the circumstances when it is considered that it is a dental emergency
- Tooth Abscess
- Knocked out tooth
- Fractured or Broken Tooth
- Unbearable Toothache
- Lost filing
- Soft tissue injuries
Conclusion
Tooth pain can be managed through variety of the management techniques and through combination of these techniques a person may get valuable results. A patient can prevent initially the teeth diseases from Home remedies but carelessness usually cause the patient to run till Dental Surgeries. It is recommended that possible lifestyle changes are to be adapted in an order to get the valuable results and In case of Severity of the pain Proper Medications and Procedures are to be followed on Dentist recommendations. Take proper care of your dental health as your health is investment rather than expense.
As said by Benjamin Franklin “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Law of Nature always works for the Vigilant, so staying well informed about the dental disease and being proactive might reduce, lessen or eradicate the chance of the disease. Regular checkup, oral hygiene and proper diet are key principles of healthy teeth.
Your insights might help other to manage your dental health, share your experiences in the comment box.
FAQs
What are the quickest methods to relieve tooth pain?
Some of the quickest methods to relieve the tooth pain includes certain numbing gels, cold compress, garlic, elevation of the head etc.
Can tooth pain be prevented?
Yes, Tooth pain can be prevented by avoiding unhygienic oral conditions, regularly brushing the tooth, daily check ups, using Fluoride products, staying hydrated and quitting smoking habits etc.
How do I know when to see a dentist?
In case if there is pain in the dental area along with two or more symptoms a person need to see the doctor such as Swelling and Inflammation in the tooth area, Fever, Sleep Disturbance, Sensitivity in the teeth, Disturbance in food or water intake, Redness of the Gums, Jaw Pain, Ear ache or Headache etc.