There’s nothing worse than taking a cold drink and then being overcome with pain as the cold liquid hits a sensitive spot on a tooth. Toothaches can be caused by cavities, infections, or gum disease. No matter the cause, the pain can be hard to deal with. You may experience constant throbbing or a sharp pain in or around your tooth. If you experience a toothache, you should definitely call the dentist right away to address the root of the problem. In the meantime, you may want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
The great news about a toothache is that, in many cases, it can be successfully prevented! Here are four important actions you can take to make sure you won’t have to deal with a toothache anytime soon — and hopefully not ever!
- Brush and floss regularly. We know, we know. You have been told to do this since you were a toddler. But if you will take the time to properly care for your teeth—morning and night—you will avoid the pain and inconvenience that come with cavities, toothaches, and other dental problems.
- Use mouthwash to kill bacteria. Bacteria in your mouth build up and form plaque on your teeth. Undisturbed, the plaque will continue to build up and cause damage to your teeth. While brushing and flossing are the most important preventive measures in stopping plaque build-up, it doesn’t hurt to add an antiseptic mouthwash rinse to your routine. This will help to kill bacteria in your mouth.
- Watch what you eat and drink. Highly acidic or sugary foods and drinks will erode your teeth quickly. To prevent cavities or other dental issues that may be the source of a toothache, cut down your intake of food & drink that might do damage.
- Visit the dentist! By receiving regular professional cleanings, you will be ahead of the game in preventing a toothache. Your dentist can help take more preventive measures to protect your teeth, such as fluoride applications and sealants.