Toothache Causes and Home Remedies

What Causes Toothache?

A toothache causes pain in the area around the teeth and jaws. They can arise from problems in the teeth or the jaws. Tooth cavities, exposed roots of the teeth, cracks in the teeth, disease of the gums, jaw problems and muscle spasms while chewing can all lead to toothaches. The pain arising from a toothache can range from mild to intensely painful. The discomfort and pain may also become aggravated when the affected area comes in contact with hot or cold substances. To determine if the cause of the toothache is due to a problem with the teeth or the jaws, a dental x-ray may be performed. In some cases, pain in the jaw and teeth area can also result from conditions of the heart such as heart attack or angina. Infections of the ear canal or inflammation of the sinus cavities can also cause toothache.

The most common causes of toothaches are dental cavities which are holes that develop in the enamel and dentin of the teeth. They result due to the action of bacteria in the mouth which converts sugars into acid. The acid erodes through the enamel and dentin, thereby creating holes called cavities. Large cavities can cause the sensitive pulp of the tooth to become exposed. Another fairly common cause of toothache is gum disease, also known as gingiva. It is caused by the action of bacteria that is present in the plaque which builds up around the edges of the gums. Gum disease in severe cases can cause the roots of the teeth to become exposed. This results in intense sensitivity to cold and heat. Tooth fractures, in which cracks develop along the tooth, can also cause toothache. Problems of the temporo mandibular joint can also result in tooth pain. This can occur due to trauma or injury to the joint.

Home Remedies For Toothache Pain

A very popular remedy for toothache is the application of clove oil to the affected tooth. One can also place a clove on the aching tooth for a few minutes. Chewing on a piece of raw onion is also known to treat tooth pain as it destroys the germs that infect the teeth. Lime helps to prevent dental decay and gum disease. Gargling with wheat grass juice is also beneficial in treating toothaches. Application of asafoetida mixed with lemon juice serves to ease toothaches. A mixture of salt and pepper also works well in relieving infected gums and painful cavities.