There are several reasons that you may be experiencing a toothache. It could be...
Simple toothaches can often be relieved by rinsing the mouth to clear it of debris and other matter. Sometimes, a toothache can be caused or aggravated by a piece of debris lodged between the tooth and another tooth. However, do not place an aspirin between your tooth and gum to relieve pain, because the dissolving aspirin can actually harm your gum tissue.
Toothaches are also caused by tooth decay. Decay is caused by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth when they digest sugar that you eat. That sugar can be liquid (soda) or solid (candy or cake). The bacteria digest the sugar, produce acid and that acid dissolves the enamel and dentin of the tooth. If this decay process is let to progress, you may experience severe pain and the tooth may need root canal therapy (removal of the nerve within the tooth) or may need to be extracted.
Broken, Fractured, or Displaced Tooth
A broken, fractured or displaced tooth is usually not a cause for alarm, as long as decisive, quick action is taken.
If the tooth has been knocked out, try to place the tooth back in its socket while waiting to see your dentist.
First, rinse the mouth of any blood or other debris and place a cold cloth or compress on the cheek near the injury. This will keep down swelling.
If you cannot locate the tooth back in its socket, hold the dislocated tooth by the crown - not the root. Next, place it in a container of warm milk, saline or the victim's own saliva and keep it in the solution until you arrive at the emergency room or dentist's office.
For a fractured tooth, it is best to rinse with warm water and again, apply a cold pack or compress. Ibuprofen may be used to help keep down swelling.
If the tooth fracture is minor, the tooth can be sanded or if necessary, restored by the dentist if the pulp is not severely damaged.
If a child's primary tooth has been loosened by an injury or an emerging permanent tooth, the tooth may be gently removed. In most cases, the tooth will easily separate from the gum.
