Toothache (Pulpitis)
For there was never yet philosopher that could endure the toothache patiently- William Shakespeare
image by: Helga Weber
HWN Suggests
Toothache Pain: When Does It Become Something to Worry About?
Toothaches are awful, aren’t they?
In fact, they are really high up there on the “pain scale” — at least in my mind (and the minds of many patients that I see). I mean, think about it — they are painful enough to drive someone to go see a professional who will drill (drill!) into said teeth (amongst other things). So yes, toothaches hurt...
Before we get started, let me come right out and tell you that no, a normal, classic toothache cannot kill you. Yes, the pain might seem like it can and the underlying issues that caused the toothache could possibly be fatal if left untreated. And, to pile on, some rather nasty afflictions list jaw…
Featured
A Killer Toothache: How U.S. Dental Care Became a National Emergency
Although significant evidence links poor oral health to systemic diseases, particularly diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, most people are uneducated about the consequences of poor oral hygiene and its role in overall health.
Articles of Interest
2 ways to tackle toothache naturally
Toothaches are common and vary from mild discomfort to unbearable throbbing pains, toothaches are never to be toyed with.
Dentists would not treat my toothache – now my health has been wrecked for ever
I was fit and healthy when I first felt pain in a molar. After numerous dentists and doctors left it untreated, there were knock-on effects throughout my body. Today I am in constant pain and look almost unrecognisable.
How can a child die of toothache in the US?
When a 12-year-old boy lost his life as a result of an untreated tooth abscess in Maryland in 2007, his story revealed how hard it can be for people on low incomes to get the dental care...
Management of severe acute dental infections
Pulpitis, or toothache—is an inflammatory condition of the pulp usually caused by dental decay or a failed filling. It is characterised by severe pain in the mouth and jaw, which is stimulated by hot and cold, and in later stages the tooth can feel sore during biting. The pain can be either sharp or dull and poorly localised and can radiate to the ear. Crucially, there is no bacterial infection of the surrounding tissue, swelling, or suppuration. The infection does not respond to antibiotics and analgesia is often ineffective. This condition requires management by a dentist.
Natural Home Remedies: Toothache
Toothache is at the top of the list for not-a-fun-time, but there are some natural remedies you can use to relieve the pain before you make it to the dentist.
Potential Causes of Toothaches: It's Not Always a Cavity
No matter how conscientious you are about your oral care routine, at some point in your life you will probably experience the discomfort of a toothache. Though a cavity is the most likely culprit, it is only one of several possible causes of toothaches.
Rainforest Remedy May Tackle Toothache
An anesthetic gel made from a plant found in the Peruvian rainforest could revolutionize dental treatment...
The Oldest Toothache
A specimen of one of the many prehistoric creatures Cope named during his career also suffered from a painful dental pathology.
Toothaches And Airplanes: A Terrible Combination
There are some combinations that just go great together: Peanut butter and jelly, wine and cheese, baseball and hot dogs, Abbot and Costello ... But toothaches and airplanes will not be joining this list because they are a terrible combination.
Use Clove Oil to Soothe a Toothache
If you have an achy tooth or gum and your dentist's first opening is in a week or two, a dab of clove oil can offer some temporary relief while you're waiting to get it looked at by a professional. Just a dab on a cotton swab on the tooth or area that hurts and after a few minutes, it'll be good and numb.
Resources
HealthLinkBC
The most common cause of a toothache is tooth decay, although a toothache may not be present in the early stages of decay. Other reasons for a toothache might include...
