3 General Dentist Tips on Helping a Toothache
Need to see a general dentist when suffering from a toothache? Since some toothaches can wait to be treated, there are a few tips dental patients can follow before their appointment.
About toothaches
Understanding some tips from a general dentist on how to deal with a toothache is a great idea. General dentists are dental professionals who know everything there is to know about treating toothaches, making them the go-to professional for those who are living with a toothache. According to WebMD, a toothache or tooth pain is caused when the nerve in the root of a tooth or the surrounding tooth is irritated. This irritation will eventually lead to one experiencing various levels of discomfort or pain.
Tips from a general dentist
The list below includes three tips that will help those who are suffering from a toothache minimize any discomfort or pain they are experiencing.
#1 – Take something to help minimize the discomfort or pain
For toothache sufferers who are experiencing a great deal of discomfort or pain, there are a few different pain-relieving options they can choose from. One of the more common is taking an over the counter pain reliever, of which there are many options. Other pain-relieving options include using essential oils, with peppermint oil and clove oil being two of the more popular oils to use. Both oils include anti-inflammatory properties and also help to numb the painful area.
#2 – Rinse the mouth to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation
There are a few different options recommended by a general dentist for rinsing the mouth in order to help a toothache. One of the more popular is using a warm salt water rinse. Using about half a teaspoon of salt mixed with about 8 ounces of water is all that is needed and works by killing any bad bacteria in the mouth. Additionally, salt water can be helpful in reducing any inflammation. A close second option is using a hydrogen peroxide rinse. Hydrogen peroxide also helps to kill bacteria in the mouth and can be used to temporarily treat any discomfort or pain associated with toothaches
#3 – Use an ice pack or a cold compress
Cold is used to help constrict the blood vessels in and around the toothache area. Constricting the blood vessels helps to reduce any discomfort or pain associated with toothaches, which is due to the fact that the flow of blood to the area is minimized. Placing coolness on the area also helps to reduce any swelling and inflammation present. General dentists do state that it is important to keep in mind that heat should not be used to address a toothache, as heat can potentially make the problem worse.
Get started with treatment
Ready to make an appointment with a general dentist to address a toothache? There are a few different causes of toothaches, making it a good idea for those suffering to identify the cause, which can be helpful in preventing them in the future. To find out more, reach out today!
Request an appointment here: https://www.culvercitydental.com or call Culver City Dental at (310) 272-5405 for an appointment in our Culver City office.
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