What to Do When Your Tooth Hurts

Toothache usually occurs as a result of certain dental problems. It is a highly uncomfortable pain felt in the tooth, jaw, and sometimes specific areas of the face. It directly affects and lowers quality of life. In most cases, it is a severe type of pain. Toothache may arise from many causes, such as gum irritation or tooth decay. Minor gum irritation may cause temporary toothache that resolves on its own, but some dental issues can lead to more serious problems.

Infections that develop in the center of the tooth can cause conditions such as dental abscess or gum infection. In such situations, you should visit a dentist without delay. Toothaches often intensify at night due to hormonal changes and increased blood pressure within the vessels. This nighttime vascular dilation directly contributes to stronger tooth pain.

Milim Dental is here to help. You can schedule an appointment with our expert dentists and protect your oral health.

What Should You Do During a Toothache?

1. Saltwater rinse helps remove debris between the teeth. It acts as a disinfectant and can reduce inflammation.
2. Keep your head elevated at night to lessen the intensity of nighttime toothaches.
3. Avoid acidic, cold, or hard foods before going to bed.
4. Use dental floss to remove food particles lodged between the teeth, which often cause pain.
5. Do not take medication without consulting a dentist.
6. Vanilla extract can temporarily ease pain. Applying it a few times a day may help.
7. Gargling with warm water 2–3 times a day may reduce discomfort.
8. Apply a cold compress to the cheek on the painful side to relieve symptoms.
9. If the pain is caused by infection, root canal treatment may be required. Consulting a dentist is always the safest option.
10. Avoid harmful practices. You can read our article “Common Mistakes in Treating Toothache.”

To schedule an appointment for toothache treatment, contact Milim Dental. Our experienced dentists are ready to help you achieve a healthier life.

Why Do Our Teeth Hurt?

If you’re wondering “What causes toothache?” here is the answer:

The tooth consists of three layers: enamel, dentin, and pulp.

1. Enamel: The hard outer layer of the tooth.
2. Dentin: The softer, living layer beneath enamel.
3. Pulp: The innermost layer containing nerves and blood vessels.

Dentin is filled with microscopic tubules that connect enamel to the pulp. When enamel wears down and exposes dentin, stimuli such as cold, heat, or sugar can travel through these tubules and irritate the pulp, causing pain.

Common Causes of Toothache

Toothache typically originates from the tooth itself, but it may also be felt in the jaw or other areas of the face. Infections, gum problems, or structural issues may be responsible. Understanding the anatomy of the painful tooth helps determine the appropriate treatment.

Some common causes include:

1. Fracture of the tooth or tooth root
2. Bacterial infection
3. Dental abscess
4. Sinus infection causing tooth pain
5. Cracked or chipped tooth
6. Misaligned teeth
7. Root inflammation
8. Gum inflammation
9. Damaged dental fillings
10. Post-extraction pain
11. Jaw joint (TMJ) disorders

For an appointment regarding your oral and dental health, contact Milim Dental. Our expert dentists are ready to assist you with all the information you need.

Dt. İsmail Özkısaoğlu

Dentist