Dental Health
Toothache/dental pain
Acknowledgments: This section was developed by DVA Dental Advisers using content from www.mydr.com.au webpage on 'Toothache'.
What causes toothache?
Acid-producing bacteria in the mouth causes dental decay by breaking down fermentable sugars from food such as glucose, fructose and lactose into acids. These acids then damage tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. The pain of toothache is caused by the exposure of nerve endings in the deeper parts of the tooth.
Toothache caused by a cavity requires a visit to the dentist - the tooth will not mend itself.
If pain does eventually lessen, the nerves in the tooth may have 'died'. Decay will still be present and the tooth will continue decaying unless a dentist treats the tooth. Pain intensifies when there is infection in the bone surrounding the tooth.
How can you prevent toothache?
You can help prevent toothache by regular brushing and flossing. Fluoride can help prevent tooth decay that causes toothache. In Australia sufficient fluoride is obtained from fluoride-containing toothpaste and fluoride in the water supply. All state capital cities except Brisbane have fluoride added to the water system to help reduce tooth decay.
Flossing with dental floss will help reduce tooth decay and toothache by removing food and plaque from spaces between teeth. Mouthwashes (antiseptics) temporarily lower the number of bacteria in the saliva, but offer only short-term protection.
The role of saliva in tooth decay
Lack of saliva can increase the chance of developing tooth decay. Saliva helps prevent tooth decay because it neutralises the acids produced by carbohydrate food breakdown, and its enzymes help clear carbohydrates and bacteria from the mouth. Sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production.
Sensitive teeth
'Sensitive teeth' tends to be a term used for teeth that are painful when exposed to acidic foods or extremes of temperature. The reason they are sensitive is that part of the inner structure of the tooth (the dentine) has become exposed. People with sensitive teeth may need to use special toothpastes for sensitive teeth, and may have to try a variety of products before they find one that suits them. Sensitivity that affects many teeth may be caused by a high concentration of acids in the mouth, from reflux, or from drinks. Your dentist can give you advice on what changes you can make in your eating patterns to reduce acid damage to the teeth.
How can you relieve toothache?
Medications for temporary pain relief, such as paracetamol or paracetamol and codeine may be used to relieve toothache until you are able to see a dentist. Codeine-containing products may cause constipation and should be used cautiously in people prone to constipation, especially older people.
It is best not to use aspirin because of the risk of bleeding during dental treatment. A NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) such as ibuprofen may be a suitable substitute for aspirin as it has less risk of contributing to bleeding. NSAIDs should be avoided if you have asthma or a history of stomach problems (such as ulcers or reflux) because they may worsen these problems.
When should you seek immediate dental advice?
You should seek an immediate dental appointment if you have:
- Obvious inflammation, abscess or fever
- General unwellness
- A swollen jaw or face, or
- Injury caused by trauma, such as a blow to the mouth.