Emergency Appointments Available
Need urgent care? We offer same-day appointments—and nitrous oxide sedation is available if you’re feeling uneasy.
What is a Toothache?
A toothache refers to pain around your teeth and jaws. It may be persistent or come and go. In most cases, toothaches are the result of tooth decay, gum disease, and sensitive teeth. They may also arise due to teeth grinding and clenching, fractured teeth, and inflammation in the pulp of the teeth. Tooth abscess, which is an infection around the teeth and sinus infections might lead to toothaches as well. Regardless of the cause of your tooth pain, you can find relief with the help of a seasoned dentist.
Why Is Tooth Pain Treatment So Important?
A toothache is often more than a minor inconvenience. It can be a sign of an underlying dental condition that warrants prompt attention from a dentist who can diagnose and alleviate your discomfort. Here’s why treatment is important:
Can lead to more serious problems
Left untreated, tooth pain may cause complications that can be extensive and costly. For example, an infection might spread to other parts of your body.
Potential tooth loss
Depending on the situation, long-lasting tooth pain can result in loss of the affected teeth and wreak havoc to the surrounding teeth and gums.
May make everyday life a challenge
A toothache can become so unbearable that you’re unable to work, study, care for your kids, or perform daily activities.
Peace of mind
Instead of wondering why your tooth hurts, it’s in your best interest to find out from an experienced dentist who can explain the cause and recommend the next best steps.
Who Needs Tooth Pain Treatment?
At-home remedies like salt water rinses, cold compresses, and over-the-counter pain medication may temporarily relieve a toothache. However, in most cases, it’s a good idea to visit a dentist. You should schedule an appointment if any of the following apply to you:
- Your pain has become severe.
- Your pain has persisted for more than 48 hours.
- Your pain is accompanied by a fever.
- You have an earache in addition to tooth pain.
- Your gums are red and flamed.
- Your pain is sharp and feels like someone is stabbing your tooth.
- You’re sensitive to hot or cold.
- Your pain is interfering with your daily activities.
Note that if your pain is making it difficult to breathe or swallow, emergency medical care is required.
Root Canals at Queen Anne Smiles
In some cases, tooth pain may be the result of deep infection or damage within the pulp of the tooth. If this is the case, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth and eliminate your pain. The good news is that you don’t need to visit an outside specialist—Queen Anne Smiles offers expert root canal treatment right here in our Seattle office. Our skilled team will ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure and work to preserve your natural tooth while fully resolving the infection.
Tooth Extractions Made Easy
If a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be repaired, an extraction might be the most effective solution to relieve your discomfort and protect your oral health. At Queen Anne Smiles, we perform extractions in-office, so there’s no need to coordinate with a separate oral surgeon. We’ll walk you through the entire process, explain your aftercare instructions, and even discuss tooth replacement options like implants or bridges if needed.
Tooth Pain Treatment FAQs
Due to the change in blood pressure when you lie down for bed, your toothache might become more apparent at night. Fortunately, elevating your head with a pillow can help promote blood flow and reduce inflammation. An over-the-counter pain medication may also be a good idea.
The cause of your toothache will determine how long it sticks around. If it’s the result of an underlying condition like a cavity or gum disease, the pain will continue until you receive treatment. However, if your toothache is due to mild gum irritation, it may go away on its own within a few hours.
Sometimes, a saltwater rinse can reduce discomfort in your mouth. It can soothe gum inflammation and remove bacteria that might be causing the tooth pain. To make a saltwater rinse, simply dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds. Repeat this multiple times a day until you visit a dentist.
You can apply ice to your affected area to minimize swelling and discomfort. Heating packs can worsen your tooth pain so it’s wise to avoid them.
Until you can see a dentist, mix Orajel gel and a cold compress and apply it directly to your gums for some relief. A dentist can determine the cause of the nerve pain and recommend an appropriate solution.
Saltwater rinses, hydrogen peroxide, clove oil, and garlic may all help tooth pain and infections in your mouth. Note that these at-home remedies may provide temporary relief but permanent relief will likely require a dentist’s expertise.
No. At Queen Anne Smiles, we offer same-day treatments whenever possible, so we can resolve your tooth pain quickly and efficiently without needing multiple visits.
You’re not alone—many patients feel uneasy about dental visits. To help, we offer nitrous oxide sedation (also known as laughing gas). It’s a safe and gentle way to help you relax and feel more at ease during your appointment, while still staying awake and alert. If you’re feeling uncomfortable, just let us know—we’re here to help.