Over the festive period, it's tempting to attribute toothache to sugary indulgences, yet such issues should not be brushed aside according to Dr Smita Mehra from The Neem Tree Dental Practices, a simple "normal toothache" might lead to serious health risks if neglected. Dr Mehra explained that a toothache with an inflamed tooth can intensify pain due to limited space for swelling in the mouth and requires urgent attention.
Failure to get treatment could result tooth loss, infections and abscesses that may spread throughout the body. She pointed out: "Bacteria from infections, dental abscesses, or gum diseases can spread to other parts of the body, potentially causing life-threatening conditions such as sepsis or infections in the jaw, neck, or even the brain. This is why seeing a dentist is crucial, as they can prescribe the appropriate antibiotics, if needed, to address the infection."
Furthermore, she warned that untreated tooth infections often develop into abscesses, causing increased agony, swelling, fevers, and necessitating "treated immediately". Any form of dental pain and prolonged toothaches can lead to irreversible damage around your teeth, gums or even jaw bone, none of which can recover or grow back after a certain point and could force medical practitioners to remove your teeth as a last resort treatment.
Sepsis is when the body has an incorrect reaction to an infection and causes widespread inflammation, tissue damage, organ failure and death in severe cases. Untreated dental infections that form abscesses that can cause sepsis. Additionally, the dentist pointed out that you aren’t saving time or money by procrastinating getting your toothache seen to.
She noted: "Early-stage dental issues are often more straightforward and less expensive to treat. Delayed care, however, may require more invasive and costly procedures, such as root canals, surgeries, or implants."
The first point of call for toothaches should be your dentist, who can assess the situation, prescribe medications and treatments or recommend your next steps. Dr Mehra also shared some tips for handling dental pain at home while waiting for your appointment or medical help.
Firstly, figure out your pain: "Determine if the pain is dull, sharp, or intense, and is it accompanied by swelling. Determine how long it lasts and whether it subsides with painkillers. Dental pain lasting less than two days and improving with painkillers may not always require a dentist visit, but for peace of mind, consider booking an appointment."
She cautioned that if you experience swelling in the neck or mouth along with pain, it's crucial to "Visit your local A&E immediately." For less severe dental pain, she recommends remedies such as salt, clove oil, painkillers, and cold compresses. These can temporarily ease the discomfort by diminishing pain and swelling.
Gargling a blend of warm water and ½ a teaspoon of salt may ward off infections and cleanse wounds, while clove oil has properties that can provide temporary relief for other toothache related symptoms.