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What is toothache and swelling?Toothache and swelling happens when there’s a problem with your teeth or gums, causing pain and discomfort. Show
If you don’t treat it, toothache can get worse. This can affect your overall health and wellbeing. Visit a dentist as soon as you can. What symptoms relate to toothache and swelling?Toothache can start suddenly. It can cause pain and discomfort that ranges from mild to very severe. The pain can be constant, throbbing, or it may come and go. It can also affect your head, ear and jaw. If you have toothache, you may also have:
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the teeth and dental problems Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help. What causes toothache and swelling?If you have a toothache, it can be caused by dental problems such as:
You can also have painful teeth if you have a sinus infection, a mouth ulcer or a problem with your jaw. Cross section of an adult human molar.When should I see my doctor?See your doctor if you have:
Call your dentist if the toothache lasts for more than 2 days. How is toothache and swelling diagnosed?Your doctor or dentist will examine your teeth and may take an x-ray. They will ask you about your pain and talk about your dental history. How is toothache and swelling treated?Treatment will depend on the cause of the toothache or swelling. It may include a filling, root canal therapy or a crown. If you have gum disease, your dentist will recommend regular brushing and will remove any plaque. Treating the cause of the tooth pain or swelling will help provide pain relief. Looking after yourselfIt is important to take care of yourself until you can get treatment for your toothache or swelling. Make sure you keep your teeth and mouth clean. Brush your teeth after every meal using fluoride toothpaste. If your mouth is sore, use a soft toothbrush. If you smoke, try to cut down or quit. Eat foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Avoid drinks that are very hot or very cold. If you are in pain, ask your healthcare practitioner about pain relief medicines that you can take. Take them regularly and always follow the instructions on the packet. If you require emergency pain relief, there are some tips you can try at home.
Using clove oil or gargling aspirin are not recommended. Can toothache and swelling be prevented?Taking care of your mouth helps prevent toothache and swelling. As well as brushing and flossing regularly:
Complications of toothache and swellingIt’s important to fix the cause of toothache and swelling. Poor mouth health can destroy the tissues in the mouth, leading to long-term problems. It can make it harder for you to chew and swallow and can affect your nutrition and general health. Untreated dental problems can also affect your overall health. Resources and supportFind out more about looking after your teeth on the Australian Dental Association’s website. Get advice on mouth care. How long does toothache normally last?See a dentist if you have toothache:
that lasts more than 2 days. that does not go away when you take painkillers. with a high temperature, pain when you bite, red gums, or a bad taste in your mouth. and your cheek or jaw is swollen.
Can a toothache go away on its own?Can my toothache go away on its own? Some toothaches that come from pain around (but not inside) your tooth can get better without a trip to the dentist. Pain from a temporary irritation (redness) in the gum can be resolved within a few days. During this time try not to chew around the affected area.
How long is too long for toothache?When to see your dentist. If you have toothache for more than one or two days, visit your dentist as soon as possible to have it treated. The longer you leave it, the worse it will get. If your toothache isn't treated, the pulp inside your tooth will eventually become infected.
How long can a toothache last untreated?In conclusion, the maximum period that an untreated tooth abscess can sustain is 12 months or more. But, such longevity is associated with dangerous complications such as sepsis or even death. Schedule your appointment with a dentist today and get the treatment on time!
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