Toothache

                      Toothache

 

A toothache is pain felt in or around a tooth caused by tooth decay,infection, earache, sinus infection or injury to the jaw joint.

 

Signs of a Toothache

 

• Pain with chewing

 

• Bleeding or foul tasting discharge

 

• Swelling of the gums or jaw

 

• Redness of the gums or jaw

 

• Hot or cold pain with food or drinks

 

 

 

 

Your Care

Make an appointment with a dentist if you have:

 

• A toothache longer than 1 or 2 days

 

• A fever, earache or pain when opening your mouth

 

Ask your dentist about an over the counter pain medicine

to take to ease your pain while you wait for your appointment.

Do not take aspirin or products with aspirin. Avoid eating very

hot or cold foods. It may help to bite down on a cotton ball

soaked in oil of cloves. This can be purchased at most

pharmacies. The dentist will examine your mouth and

do x-rays. The dentist will then repair or remove the tooth.

Pain medicine or antibiotics may be prescribed. Take your

medicines as ordered.

 

 

How to Prevent Toothaches

 

Most dental problems such as a toothache can be prevented

with good mouth care.

 

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste, floss and use

mouthwash each day. 

 

• See a dentist to have your teeth checked every six months