Tooth pain is quite common, but how you manage yours will vary according to what's causing it. For example, your approach to jaw pain should differ from managing the aches that come with an abscess. Here are some different types of tooth pain and the ways you can manage them.

Jaw Pain

Jaw pain that arises at the joint often affects both sides. It can occur because you're grinding your teeth at night or due to stress in muscles in your neck and shoulders. As such, massaging these areas or trying relaxation techniques can make your jaw pain better. If your pain continues, schedule an appointment with your dentist so they can introduce interventions.

Accident Pain

From falling over to participating in contact sports, there are lots of ways an accident can cause dental pain. If your pain is accompanied by a loose, fractured or dislodged tooth, you should schedule an appointment with an emergency dentist. Or, if your jaw appears uneven or feels loose, seek emergency attention. Otherwise, you can try using over-the-counter painkillers to take the edge of the pain. If your pain becomes increasingly severe, it may be a sign that you need emergency dental attention.

Toothache

Many people experience a toothache at some point in their lives. In a lot of cases, it's a sign that an infection is brewing and you need dental attention to address it. Sometimes it can arise when your wisdom teeth are growing through, as they break the surface of the gums. If your pain isn't severe, try taking over-the-counter medications. However, if it is severe it may be a sign that you need urgent care. By scheduling an emergency appointment with your dentist you can get to the root of the issue and benefit from an intervention that stops it from happening again.

Infection

Sometimes infections become severe to the point that they're obvious. If you're experiencing swelling and flu-like symptoms, it may be that you're dealing with an abscess. Try to resist the urge to add a heat pack to the area. In doing so, you may widen the blood vessels there and make it easier for the pain to spread. For rapid relief, swill some saltwater to draw fluid away from the area. With less fluid there, you should find that there's less pressure on your pain nerves. Try to see a dentist as soon as you can so they can tackle your abscess and relieve your pain.

For more information on a toothache, contact a professional near you.

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