Somewhere right now someone is experiencing severe tooth pain. How did this happen? What brought in on? More importantly, what will relieve it?
There are primarily four events that can cause a toothache. The first reason is that the tooth can be impacted in the bone and trying to move or grow placing pressure and pain on the area. Second, the gum around the tooth has been invaded by bacteria causing the tooth to loosen and become sore. Third, the tooth has been infected by bacteria and over time the bacteria can eat its way to the nerve of the tooth. Often the bacteria will enter the nerve and cause an abscess. The fourth reason for a toothache is that outside forces can work on the tooth causing it to break and become very sore. We often find a combination of one or more of these factors working together to make it impossible for you to tolerate the pain.
Relief is as close 222-A E. Primrose Springfield, Mo. This is the location of “Dental E.R.” For directions or more information visit http://www.dental-
What can you do now to control the pain before you find a dentist? If you are simply experiencing tooth sensitivity due to cold or heat, there are some over the counter toothpastes designed to control pain. When the toothpaste is used in combination with an anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen it may relieve the pain until you are able to see a dentist. If you broke a tooth and it is feels rough to your check or tongue, try smoothing it with sand paper or an emery board until you see a dentist. If the soreness is only around the gum at the place where the tooth and gum meet, you may try using hydrogen peroxide or numbing the gum with an anesthetic agent such as benzocaine or oral jell to give some added relief.
Most advanced toothaches are caused by bacteria entering the bone and blood stream. If this is the case, you will need antibiotics such as penicillin to kill the infection and prevent further swelling. Using a cold pack on the outside of your face may also reduce pain. Never use hot on the outside of the face, it will increase pain and swelling. Some Canadian studies have shown that rubbing ice on the skin between your thumb and first finger helped some people.
If the pain is waking you up at night, you need to seek dental care immediately. Dental ER is here for you 10:00am Monday-Friday and 10:00am the first and last Saturday of the month. To verify hours please call us at 417-851-8111 to hear a recording of our hours.
