Spirit Dental Resources

Participating in activities like sports and martial arts can be a lot of fun, as well as a smart way to exercise, but it could also be risky, particularly when it comes to your teeth. And that’s where a good mouthguard can come in to provide the protection that you need. What are mouthguards, and why would you need to use one? We’ve got you covered with some helpful information below.    What Exactly Is a Mouthguard, Anyway? Also referred to as a mouth protector, a mouthguard is a simple product that you can easily place in your mouth, usually only on the upper teeth, in order to cover your pearly whites and protect them against impact. This means that, whether you get punched in the face during a karate class, a ball hits your face while playing sports, or you fall while skating, your mouthguard could help reduce the risk of injuring your mouth or breaking your teeth. Note: Beyond protecting your chompers, mouthguards can even help protect the inside of your cheeks and lips, as well as your tongue. Fun fact: You typically don’t need to use a mouthguard to cover your lower teeth because they’re already a bit more protected, while the top teeth are more exposed. However, you can also get a mouthguard for your lower teeth when necessary, such as if you wear braces.   Is a Mouthguard One Size Fits All? There are actually a few different types of mouthguards that you can choose from, depending on your needs and preferences. First up, there’s the good ol’ stock mouthguard, which is a preformed product that is ready for use right after you purchase it. You can easily find these mouthguards in stores, such as in a sporting goods store, and they’re affordable. Unfortunately, if the fit isn’t perfect, there isn’t much that you can do about it, and your mouthguard might not be able to fully protect your teeth if that’s the case. Plus, you might even find that this mouth protector isn’t all that comfortable. So, while this may be a good place to start when searching for a mouthguard, there are better options out there.   Custom-fitted mouthguards are—you guessed it—custom-made to fit your unique mouth. What could be better than that? Your dentist can help you get the ideal mouth protector by taking an impression of your teeth and then crafting a mouthguard in that shape. This is the best way to get the full protection that you want for your chompers, but be prepared to pay more for this personalized product. Another option is the boil and bite mouthguard, which you can also buy in stores. This is a good in-between solution if you want something that’s a little more customized to your mouth, without having to go to the dentist to purchase a more expensive custom-fitted product. Basically, you’ll put this mouthguard into some hot water in order to soften it up. Then, you’ll place it in your mouth so that it can take on the shape of your teeth. Not bad, right? Tip: How do you know if a mouthguard is the perfect fit? If it’s comfortable and it isn’t restricting your ability to breathe or speak, it’s a great choice.   Can a Mouthguard Really Protect Your Teeth? You might be wondering if a mouthguard is really necessary, worth the money, and protective enough. The truth is that, yes, when it’s properly fitted, it can be effective. If you enjoy sports that may result in blows to the face that put your jaw, lips, teeth, and tongue at risk, a mouthguard is necessary to keep your smile looking beautiful. Keep in mind, too, that if you participate in non-contact sports (like biking or gymnastics, as a couple of examples), a mouthguard can be helpful. People of all ages, including kids, can benefit from the use of a protective and properly fitted mouthguard. So if you’re going to do anything that could put you at risk of a mouth injury or broken teeth, consider wearing a mouthguard while you play. Because a blow to your face might also cause damage to fixed bridgework or braces, the right mouthguard will even help protect orthodontic appliances, too.   Did you know? Mouthguards aren’t just for active adventure seekers and athletes. There are also mouthguards available for those who grind their teeth while asleep. If you have been diagnosed with bruxism or TMJ, your dentist might discuss mouthguard options to help you get relief from these oral health problems. Talk to Your Dentist About Mouthguards! When in doubt about whether you need a mouthguard, and when you need some advice regarding which mouthguard is appropriate for you, it’s best to have a chat with your dentist. Also, when store-bought mouthguards won’t cut it, don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist about getting a product that will fit your mouth just right and provide the highest level of protection for your precious teeth. Hey, accidents happen. So why not take an extra step towards protecting yourself against injuries while you’re having fun? Young or old, a mouthguard is a great little device that anyone can use to reduce the risk of chipping your teeth, hurting the soft tissues of your mouth, or even losing a tooth during a variety of activities.   Sources: https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Science%20and%20Research/Files/patient_07.ashx   https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/mouth-guards#1 https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/m/mouthguards https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-emergencies-and-sports-safety/why-do-you-need-a-mouth-guard  

Bad breath is unpleasant and embarrassing. No one wants it, and no one wants to smell it either. But, sometimes, the person who has it isn’t even aware of the problem. So, what can you do to break the news gently to someone who has halitosis so that you can both get relief?    Keep It Private Telling someone that they have bad breath in front of other people isn’t going to go over well. The last thing you want to do is shame the person (after all, the embarrassment of being told they have funky breath will be bad enough). So it’s best to keep this conversation private. By having this discussion in a one-on-one setting, you can be pretty direct by telling them that there’s a little problem that you’d like them to know about, and it’s their breath. You can even proceed by sharing what you do to keep your breath smelling fresh so that you come across as concerned and helpful. Be sympathetic, respectful, and friendly. This will be a better approach than merely blurting out that their breath stinks. Tip: If you’re talking to a close family member about their bad breath, you might consider talking about their oral hygiene routine more openly. For example, you could ask them if they’re brushing twice a day and flossing, what type of toothbrush they’re using, and if they’re seeing their dentist for cleanings and checkups. But, again, it’s best to allow this conversation to flow from a place of concern for the other person’s health, so be compassionate and ready to offer tips. Side note: Keep in mind that you oftentimes can’t smell your own breath, and just because someone has bad breath certainly doesn’t mean that they aren’t practicing good oral hygiene. You could brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly, yet still have nasty breath, including morning breath, every now and then, especially if your tongue isn’t as clean as it should be. Give Subtle Hints with Mints If taking a more direct approach isn’t your idea of a good time, you can try a subtler strategy. As an example, you could keep mints or gum on hand. Start by offering it to them, or you might take some for yourself first before offering it to the other person. If this happens multiple times, the person may just get the hint. But what if they refuse the mints that you’re offering? Well, at that point, you might want to consider saying something like, “I think you should take some.”    As an alternative, you could also just leave a pack of mints or gum on the person’s desk at work, in their car, or in their room at home. If it’s a coworker that you’re trying to help, doing this anonymously means you can drop the hint without them knowing that it’s you, and that can take a lot of pressure off. It’ll Be Worth It to Break the News Sure, it can be totally awkward at first to tell someone that they have bad breath, whether it’s a loved one, a friend, or a coworker. But it’ll be worth it because that person can then start to take steps towards getting rid of the odor, whether that means using new oral hygiene products designed to fight bad breath, changing their diet, or getting checked by a doctor to rule out underlying medical conditions that may contribute to halitosis. Bottom line: when breaking the news to someone that they have less-than-fresh breath, put yourself in their shoes. How would you like someone to approach you about this problem if you had it? From a position of empathy and concern, you can help someone, rather than hurt their feelings, and everyone will be happier for it. Sources: https://www.cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/02/13/bad.breath.remedies/index.html https://www.1800dentist.com/at-home-dental-tips/how-to-tell-someone-they-have-bad-breath/ https://smartmouth.com/articles/blog/tell-friend-bad-breath/

Tooth sensitivity is a literal pain. And even though it is temporary, arising suddenly before subsiding after a few moments, no one wants to deal with the discomfort that comes with sensitive teeth, especially while enjoying tasty foods and drinks. Thankfully, there are some things that you can do to handle sensitivity in your pearly whites, so a few easy strategies and treatments are listed below to help you get relief.   First, See Your Dentist for a Checkup There are several conditions that can cause tooth sensitivity, so it doesn’t always indicate that there’s a cavity to blame. Phew! Getting to the source of the problem is the best way to tackle it, so it’s a smart move to make an appointment with your dentist first. After a thorough examination, your dentist can help you figure out what’s causing your sensitivity, and that will give you greater insight into what you can actually do to resolve it. So, rather than choosing any old remedy for sensitive teeth, ask a pro for guidance. Doing so can help boost the odds that the treatment you use will be successful. Now let’s dive into a list of potential remedies for sensitive chompers, shall we? Tweak Your Brushing Strategy One of the first things that you can try to relieve sensitivity is switch out your toothpaste and toothbrush for products that are designed to be gentler on teeth and gums. Improving your brushing technique might also be necessary. To avoid damaging the protective enamel on your teeth, avoid brushing aggressively or with too much pressure. All you have to do to remove debris and plaque is use gentle, circular motions. Avoid using side-to-side motions, particularly at the gum line. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush, which will also be gentler on enamel. And, once your toothbrush starts to look worn (usually around every three months), it’s time to replace it. Try using non-abrasive toothpaste. You might even opt for toothpaste that’s made for sensitive teeth and may help reduce the amount of discomfort your chompers feel. These products are available over-the-counter, but your dentist can help you choose the one that’s best for your needs. Just keep in mind that you might have to use this toothpaste a few times before you start to notice a difference, so be patient. It isn’t a good idea to brush your teeth right after eating or drinking, especially if you’ve consumed foods or beverages that may adversely affect enamel (more on that below). It might be best to wait up to an hour before brushing to help protect your pearly whites. Change Your Diet, Just a Bit Different foods and drinks can affect your teeth in different ways. For example, highly acidic beverages and foods may contribute to sensitive teeth because the acid could end up wearing the enamel down over time. If your teeth are sensitive, consider reducing your intake of foods that could make the problem worse. A couple of examples are citrus fruits and carbonated beverages. Even sparkling water, which might seem harmless, may contribute to sensitivity. When enjoying a beverage that is acidic, consider drinking it through a straw. This might help reduce your teeth’s exposure to the liquid. Such a simple solution, right? Here’s another great reason to snack on more fruits and veggies: they can help stimulate the production of saliva, which can help combat any acid that your mouth has been exposed to. Receive Pro Level Treatments at Your Dentist’s Office When home remedies aren’t enough to help your teeth feel better, don’t lose hope. Your dentist has many different treatment options that may be appropriate for you. If you grind or clench your teeth, they might become sensitive. Really! But you don’t have to live with the pain, as your dentist can help you get a mouth guard to provide protection, especially if you grind your teeth while you sleep and aren’t conscious of what you’re doing. When gum recession, gum disease, or a damaged tooth is to blame for your sensitivity, your dentist can provide appropriate treatments to get your oral health back on track, such as a root canal or gum graft. With the right dental insurance, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to see your dentist right away and receive treatment without breaking the bank. In-office treatment options include the application of sealants that can help protect the surface of sensitive teeth. Your dentist might also recommend a fluoride gel for sensitive areas, or use a bonding resin to protect exposed roots, as a couple of examples. You Don’t Have to Live with Uncomfortably Sensitive Teeth! Tooth sensitivity isn’t something that you have to live with. There are a variety of tactics that you can try at home, and when those fail, your dentist is there to give you additional treatment options that can help you get some much-needed relief from the discomfort. The best way to start on your path towards pain-free teeth, though, is by making an appointment to see your dentist so that you can receive a diagnosis that can help direct you towards the most effective remedy. Before long, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite hot and cold foods and drinks without flinching in pain.   Sources: https://www.livescience.com/44377-sensitive-teeth.html https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/tooth-sensitivity/how-to-relieve-sensitive-teeth-naturally https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-sensitivity#1 https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/sensitive-teeth/faq-20057854   https://www.dentalhealth.org/sensitive-teeth https://oralb.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/teeth-sensitivity/sensitive-teeth-causes-treatments-prevention https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/teeth-sensitivity/what-helps-sensitive-teeth-relief-treatment https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Publications/Files/patient_33.pdf?la=en https://www.123dentist.com/4-treatments-sensitive-teeth/

Walk into a store that sells dental care products and you’ll be inundated with a range of toothbrushes, from manual to electronic, and from soft to hard bristles. Sometimes, having so many options is a good thing; other times, it only makes shopping for the right product all the more confusing. When it comes to shopping for a toothbrush, how do you know that you’re choosing one that will really keep your teeth and gums healthy, without causing irritation? To help you make the right decision, we’ve compiled a short list of things that you should consider. Take Your Oral Hygiene Routine to the Next Level with a Better Toothbrush Here are a few things to think about when searching for a toothbrush that you can use twice a day to ensure your teeth and gums stay strong and clean: Bigger isn’t always better, at least when you’re talking about toothbrushes. A brush head that’s too large might make it difficult to brush your teeth comfortably. On the other hand, one that’s too small may not be effective at thoroughly cleaning your teeth. Choose a size that makes it easy to access all of the hard-to-reach places in your mouth. Generally, if the head of a toothbrush is ½” wide and 1” high, it’s likely a solid choice. Soft bristles are likely going to be the best way to go for the health and comfort of your teeth and gums. Although soft, the bristles will be able to brush away food particles and plaque, so you don’t have to go with hard bristles that might end up irritating your gums and wearing away your enamel. The toothbrush handle should be long enough to make it simple to reach your back teeth, and it should be comfortable to hold. Some brushes even feature non-slip handles, making it easier to maintain your grip while you clean your pearly whites. Check the packaging for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval. It indicates that the toothbrush has been tested for quality and safety. This alone can help you narrow down your many options to those that can be trusted most. What About Electric Toothbrushes? Electric toothbrushes are great for those who are willing to spend more money on a high-quality product that will help them maintain super clean teeth and healthy gums. If you aren’t sure if an electric toothbrush is right for you, it’s a great idea to consult with your dentist, who can guide you towards a product that comes highly recommended. Here are some things to look for when shopping for an electric toothbrush: Want to make sure you don’t apply too much pressure while brushing? Look for a product that comes with a built-in sensor to let you know when you’re being too aggressive.    Experts recommend brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice a day. Having a timer built into your electric toothbrush is another great feature because it lets you know that you’ve put in the right amount of time every time you brush. Some products even come with apps and Bluetooth connectivity to ensure you’re brushing every area of your mouth for the appropriate amount of time. Nice, right? Some electric toothbrushes are powered by batteries, while others are rechargeable. The type you choose is up to you and your budget, as well as whether or not you have room for the toothbrush charging station. Something else to consider when shopping for electric brushes: you’ll need to replace the brush heads on a regular basis, just as you’d replace a manual brush. However, the replacement brush heads can be pricey, so you might want to factor those costs into your buying decision. Because electric toothbrushes are high-tech products that often come with loads of features, including different brushing modes and brush heads, it’s a wise idea to shop for one that comes with a warranty. That way, your expensive investment will be protected in case anything goes wrong. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether you want to go with a manual or electric toothbrush. You might find that you don’t like the feeling of an electric toothbrush vibrating against your teeth, or you might try one and discover that your teeth feel cleaner. Again, your dentist can help you if you’re really struggling to decide if an electric toothbrush is worth the price. Keep Your Teeth Spotless Even While Traveling Packing an electric toothbrush, complete with cumbersome charging station, for a trip might not be convenient. So, when shopping for a toothbrush that you can take with you while traveling, consider the following: If you love the way your teeth feel after using your electric toothbrush and you really don’t want to go back to a manual brush while away from home, look for an electric brush that operates on batteries so that it will be easier to pack. Rather than placing your toothbrush in a plastic bag, where moisture can allow bacteria to proliferate, look for a brush that comes with a ventilated cap that will protect the bristles while also allowing them to dry.   Disposable toothbrushes are fantastic for freshening up when you’re on the go. They can be used just once, and they have the toothpaste built right into the bristles, so all you have to do is brush your teeth as you normally would—no water or rinsing necessary. How neat is that?! Travel toothbrushes that fold up are also ideal if you want something that’s more compact. Those that feature antibacterial bristles can provide peace of mind if you’re concerned about any moisture that’s left behind before you fold up the brush and put it in your suitcase. Are Those Eco-Friendly Toothbrushes Really Any Good? We all want to do our part to help the environment, but we also don’t want to waste our hard-earned money on subpar products that won’t work even though they’re eco-friendly. So, are all of those environmentally friendly toothbrushes really worth trying? Eco-friendly toothbrushes that are made of sustainable materials, such as bamboo, rather than plastic, can be just as effective as any other toothbrush, particularly if the bristles are made of high-quality nylon. Toothbrushes that feature bristles made of other materials, such as charcoal-infused bristles, may not perform as well, or as gently, as nylon bristles. Remember, you don’t want your bristles to be too harsh on your teeth and gums, and you also don’t want them wearing out right away. Still Stumped? Ask Your Dentist! Wow, there are a lot of toothbrushes out there, complete with a range of features that you may or may not really need. It’s no wonder that so many people feel totally lost when shopping for something as simple as a toothbrush! So, when you’re in doubt about which product is right for you and your oral health needs, just check in with your dentist. He or she can offer you personalized tips so that you end up with the ideal toothbrush that you’ll actually enjoy using daily. Sources: https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/selecting-dental-products/choosing-the-right-toothbrush   https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/choosing-a-toothbrush-the-pros-and-cons-of-electric-and-disposable#1 https://www.1800dentist.com/at-home-dental-tips/how-to-pick-a-toothbrush/ https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/selecting-dental-products/how-long-will-a-travel-size-toothpaste-last https://www.bustle.com/life/the-5-best-bamboo-toothbrushes-9048946

If you’re the type of person who is all about doing things naturally, you have likely come across something known as oil pulling. What is oil pulling, and how can it affect your dental health? Should you give it a try, or are you better off sticking with basic brushing and flossing to maintain clean, strong teeth and gums? Oil Pulling: The Claims and How to Do It Oil pulling isn’t a new technique; it actually dates back thousands of years and is part of Ayurvedic medicine. Those who support the method claim that it can be used to cleanse the mouth and whiten teeth. And the best part is that you can do it all at home, on your own time. All you have to do is take a tablespoon of oil, such as sunflower oil, olive oil, sesame oil, or coconut oil, and swish it around in your mouth for up to 20 minutes. When you’re done, spit the oil out, making sure to not swallow any. Does It Really Work? Information regarding the effectiveness of oil pulling is mixed. According to WebMD,1 there are some studies showing that oil pulling can help provide protection against plaque and gingivitis, as well as bad breath. Some experts recommend sticking with coconut oil if you are going to give oil pulling a try, as it contains antimicrobial lauric acid, and a study showed that it might even help reduce the risk of tooth decay. However, if you aren’t a fan of coconut oil for any reason, you can still use sunflower oil or sesame oil to get the antibacterial benefits that they provide. Also, according to CNN,2 a couple of studies found that oil pulling using sesame oil helped reduce gingivitis, plaque, and Streptococcus mutans, which is a bacterium that is associated with tooth decay. Doesn’t sound too bad, right? There is skepticism, however, surrounding the effects of oil pulling. According to Nature Research,3 for example, a lot of the studies on oil pulling aren’t all that reliable, thanks to improper design. Longer studies and larger trials are necessary to determine if oil pulling really works. Even the American Dental Association4 (ADA) isn’t convinced, stating that there isn’t enough reliable evidence to prove that swishing oil around in your mouth can help brighten your smile or make your teeth and gums stronger. When it comes to dental hygiene practices, the ADA doesn’t recommend this technique.   Bottom line: the jury’s still out on whether or not oil pulling is worth your time. Want to Try It? Here Are Some Tips for Beginners Let’s say that you want to try oil pulling for the first time. After all, what harm could it do, right? Well, it’s totally fine to give it a go, but just be sure to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would (brush twice a day and floss at least once a day). Adding oil pulling to your oral hygiene routine as a little something extra that you’re doing to maintain your health is okay. Just don’t go substituting brushing and flossing with oil pulling—that would not be wise. And be sure to continue seeing your dentist for those all-important checkups and cleanings! Also, it can be really tough to swish oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes, so you can start by swishing for just one minute, or perhaps even five minutes. You can work your way up to 10 or 20 minutes gradually. And, when swishing the oil in your mouth, be gentle, making sure the oil is moving in between your teeth and along your gums. You don’t want your jaw to start hurting. Ouch! Overall, oil pulling is pretty easy, and just about anyone can do it. Plus, there is some evidence that shows it may benefit oral health. But even though it might be a good way to enhance your oral care strategy, you shouldn’t think of it as a miracle cure. Nothing beats a consistent brushing and flossing routine, along with regular trips to the dentist, when it comes to keeping your smile bright.   Sources: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/oil-pulling https://www.cnn.com/2014/08/06/health/oil-pulling/ https://idp.nature.com/authorize?response_type=cookie&client_id=grover&redirect_uri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nature.com%2Farticles%2Fsj.bdj.2018.281 https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/o/oil-pulling https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/adult-oral-care/coconut-oil-pulling-dangers

If you’ve ever experienced a toothache, which is pain that’s felt around or in your tooth, you aren’t alone. This is a common problem, but a lot of people aren’t sure about what causes a toothache and what can be done to get rid of the pain. That’s why we’ve compiled some helpful information about the symptoms of a toothache, along with tips on what you can do to feel relief. Let’s Start with What Causes a Toothache, Shall We? Before we dive into toothache symptoms and some of the main remedies for toothaches, let’s briefly go over what causes them. After all, by knowing the cause, you can immediately begin taking steps to prevent this pain before it arises. If your toothache is the result of a dental problem, it might be caused by decay (think: cavities or an infection deeper in the tooth). Or your might feel pain associated with damage (such as a broken filling, implant, or crown, or a chipped tooth). And yet another cause might be gum disease. On the other hand, your toothache might not actually have very much to do with your teeth and gums at all. For example, the source of the discomfort might be a sinus or viral infection, or a cluster headache. Finally, if you have malocclusion,TMJ,bruxism, or impacted wisdom teeth, you might end up experiencing a toothache. But the discomfort will be more obvious in the gums or jaw. For this reason, it’s smart to try to pinpoint where the pain is coming from, and if you’re having difficulty, consider talking to your dentist for help.   What Does a Toothache Feel Like? Toothaches can be described in a few different ways. For some people, the pain will be sharp, while for others, it will feel more like a throbbing pain. Also, the ache might come and go, or it might be constant. And you may notice that your tooth hurts when you’re eating, whenever pressure is applied to it, or when it’s exposed to something that’s sweet, hot, or cold. No matter what, it’s definitely unpleasant! Other symptoms that might show up when you have a toothache include: Headache Fever Swollen gums Discharge or bleeding in the area of the tooth A foul taste in your mouth Bad breath The toothache may become worse over time, or it might start to last for longer stretches of time. You might even realize that the pain radiates from the area of the tooth to the jaw, ear, or cheek. Ouch!   Tip: Keeping track of your toothache symptoms is certainly wise. Try to pinpoint when the pain occurs, how long it lasts, and what the triggers are. Your dentist will be able to use this information to figure out what’s causing your toothache and to prescribe the best treatment to fix the problem. What Can You Do to Get Rid of That Annoying Pain in the Mouth? So, here’s the thing: if you have a toothache that isn’t going away after a couple of days, it’s time to see your dentist. And if the pain is intense, you have pain in other areas, such as your ears, or you have a fever, it’s super important that you see your dentist right away for a thorough exam and x-rays to diagnose the cause of your discomfort. Trust us, you don’t want this to go unchecked, because if there is an infection causing the pain, failing to treat it may allow it to spread to other parts of your body. Yikes! What can a dentist do for you when you have a toothache? Well, as you likely guessed, it depends on the cause. If the pain is the result of a cavity, your dentist can clear away the decay and place a filling to make sure your tooth is as good as new. If the tooth is broken, or if an existing filling or crown is damaged, your dentist can fix those issues as well. If the dental damage is too far gone, a root canal or extraction might be in order. If the source of your tooth pain is gum disease, scaling and planing may be required to clean the gums and help them heal. If there’s an infection present, your dentist might recommend antibiotics, in addition to appropriate dental treatments. If the pain is a symptom of malocclusion, bruxism, or TMJ, your dentist will discuss treatment options with you. Can You Relieve a Toothache at Home? You Sure Can Try! There are some things that you can do at home to help reduce the pain associated with a toothache. It is best, though, to see your dentist, so consider using these strategies only to give yourself some temporary relief. Typically, hot and cold foods and beverages could make a toothache worse, so avoid those if they trigger your pain. Soak a cotton ball with a bit of clove oil and gently apply it to the affected area. As an alternative, you can use your fingers to rub the oil onto the achy tooth or gums. This oil might help numb your toothache temporarily. Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. It’s easy to make the right mix: just add about a ½ teaspoon of salt to an 8-ounce glass of water. Don’t swallow! Grab an ice pack and hold it against your cheek over the area of the toothache, especially if you’re experiencing swelling along with the pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen might be just what you need to get relief rather quickly. Plus, there are also pain-relieving liquids and gels that you can purchase (look for the numbing ingredient, benzocaine). Regardless of what product you choose, follow directions carefully. Remember: A Toothache Signals a Trip to the Dentist Is in Your Future Because a toothache could be a sign of a potentially serious underlying issue that might not be immediately obvious to you, seeing your dentist is always recommended when you experience this pain. It might just be that you have sensitive teeth, and your dentist will be able to give you tips on how to relieve that sensitivity. Or, you might have an infection in your tooth that should be treated promptly. By visiting your dentist regularly with the help of a reliable dental insurance plan, you can take an important step towards finding problems while they’re still in their minor stages, when they’ll be easier to treat. Plus, every trip to the dentist is an opportunity to discuss symptoms (like toothaches) and ask questions. And let’s not forget that regular dental cleanings are also helpful when it comes to maintaining clean gums and pain-free chompers. So many reasons to schedule those dental appointments! Sure, a toothache can be a literal pain, but it doesn’t have to last. Home remedies can help until you get to your dentist, when you’ll be able to receive whatever treatment is necessary to kick that pain for good. Sources: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/toothaches https://crest.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/toothache/tooth-pain-causes-remedies-relief-stop-tooth-pain https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/toothache#1 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10957-toothache https://www.orajel.com/en/Resource-Center/Toothache-Pain-Relief/Symptoms-and-Causes-of-Toothaches https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/home-remedies-toothache