However, as the infection persists over time, the nerves of your tooth will eventually die. This means they will no longer be able to send pain signals to the brain, hence why your toothache appears to suddenly “end.” Just because the pain has stopped doesn't mean your problem no longer exists.
In case a person does not treat a dental abscess in its initial stage, then the infection may last anywhere between 5 months to 12 months or even more. Moreover, if no treatment is meted out to the condition, the precious dental pulp will die away and may get another abscess.
Anyone who experiences a toothache for longer than 1 or 2 days without symptoms of a sinus infection should see a dentist for a full diagnosis and treatment. They may need to clean out a cavity or consider more serious options, such as root canals or tooth extractions.
Most of the time, a toothache is a serious problem and needs attention. And if you leave it unattended, the infection will get worse and will lead to bigger problems and more expensive treatments.
A disappearing toothache usually means that the nerve inside the tooth has died. The infection that caused the problem in the first place may still be present and continue to attack the surrounding tissues. Without treatment, the infection could seriously damage the jawbone and even cause systemic illness.
Throbbing tooth pain usually indicates that there is an injury or infection in the mouth. In most cases, this will be a cavity or an abscess. A person cannot diagnose the cause of throbbing tooth pain based on their symptoms alone, and it is not always possible to see injuries or abscesses.
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.
Can toothpaste help my toothache? If your tooth pain is caused by sensitivity, sensitivity or prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste can help reduce your discomfort.
Apply a cold compress to the aching tooth for 10 to 15 minutes to help numb the area. If your tooth is too sensitive, you can apply the ice to the outside of your mouth near the tooth.
If a tooth infection goes untreated, it can spread to other areas of the body over a period of weeks or months. This can cause serious symptoms like fever, difficulty breathing, or trouble swallowing. Death can occur quickly without immediate care.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is not well-suited for tooth pain because is not an NSAID and will not reduce inflammation that causes your pain. In general, non-NSAIDs and even opioids aren't very effective for toothache pain. If over-the-counter painkillers are not working for your toothache, call your dentist right away.
“Anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin or naproxen work well with dental pain because they reduce inflammation,” says Huang. Recent data has shown the combination of Advil (ibuprofen) and Tylenol (acetaminophen) is as effective as prescription opioids for tooth pain.
Sleep with your head elevated – Prop up a few pillows to prevent your blood flow from rushing to your head, making your tooth pain worse. Use a cold compress – A cold compress (or towel-wrapped ice pack) can reduce inflammation and numb the area.
All dentists are qualified to perform emergency tooth extractions if and when necessary. Tooth extractions are a relatively common oral surgical procedure and may be necessary if your tooth is severely damaged or infected.
Throbbing tooth pain is characterised by a pulsating feeling, similar to a heartbeat. The most common cause of throbbing pain in a tooth is early stage tooth decay. Tooth pain or toothache is one of the most common types of pain and may require dental treatment.
If your pain medication isn't working, call your health care provider. Remember: Don't change the dosage without talking to your health care provider. Don't abruptly stop taking your medication.
Paracetamol is a good painkiller but is less effective at reducing swelling, and therefore will provide less pain relief if you have a toothache. It can, however, be effectively used in conjunction with either Ibuprofen or Aspirin.
Tablets come in 500 mg and an adult can take 2 tablets(1000 mg) four times a day. This is a maximum dose of 8 tablets per day. Paracetamol is generally safe for most people. However, it is very important you do not take more than the recommended daily amount.
If you have a fever and swelling in your face and you can't reach your dentist, go to an emergency room. Also go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing or swallowing. These symptoms may indicate that the infection has spread deeper into your jaw, throat or neck or even to other areas of your body.
The Danger of Untreated Infected Teeth and Gums
An infection in your body is considered a threat. If they are not treated, they can last for several months or years. There are two types of dental abscess – one can form under the tooth (periapical) and the other in the supporting gum and bone (periodontal).
If the infection spreads, you may also develop a high temperature (fever) and feel generally unwell. In severe cases, you may find it hard to fully open your mouth and have difficulty swallowing or breathing.