Any kind of toothache requires a visit to the dentist. However, if you can’t see a dentist right away, there are ways to temporarily reduce the discomfort in the meantime, especially when it comes to tooth nerve pain.
That doesn’t mean you should rely on these remedies and expect the pain to disappear forever. Tooth pain is a warning sign that something is wrong and needs proper treatment. A dental check‑up is still absolutely essential.
There are many causes of toothache and tooth nerve pain. It usually occurs when one of the nerves in the tooth root becomes irritated or damaged, and the pain may radiate to other areas of the face.
See also: The Difference Between a Gum Abscess and a Tooth Abscess
What Causes Tooth Nerve Pain?
The tooth nerve is located in the dental pulp. We generally divide nerve‑related tooth pain into two categories:
– **Pulp sensitivity (pulpitis):** where the nerve pain is focused in a specific tooth.
– **Tooth sensitivity:** a more diffuse nerve pain affecting more than one tooth, often due to enamel erosion exposing the underlying dentin.
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What Does Tooth Nerve Pain Feel Like?
Tooth nerve pain is usually a sharp, throbbing pain that can come and go. An exposed tooth nerve will hurt more when food or drinks come into contact with the affected tooth—especially if they are hot, cold, or very sweet.
If the pain eases on its own, you should not assume the problem has gone away. An exposed tooth nerve almost always requires prompt dental treatment, because the tooth becomes increasingly sensitive to pain and more vulnerable to decay and infection.
See also: Eating After a Dental Filling
Ways to Relieve Tooth Nerve Pain
If you are still waiting for your dental appointment, there are some short‑term options that may help reduce the pain temporarily:
– **Over‑the‑counter pain relievers:** such as ibuprofen or paracetamol (acetaminophen), as long as they are safe for you and you follow the recommended dose.
– **Topical anesthetic gels:** products containing benzocaine can be applied to the gum around the painful tooth for short‑term numbing.
– **Avoid triggers:** stay away from very hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks, and try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
– **Cold compress:** applying a cold pack on the cheek near the painful area may help reduce pain and swelling.
– **Good oral hygiene:** gently brushing and flossing to keep the area clean can help prevent the pain from worsening, but avoid aggressive brushing on the sensitive side.
These measures do not replace dental treatment; they only help you cope until you see the dentist.
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What Happens at the Dentist?
Your dentist will start with the usual steps to identify the problem: they will ask about the intensity of your pain, when it started, and any remedies you have tried for your tooth nerve pain. Then they will perform a thorough examination of your mouth to pinpoint the source of the pain and determine the underlying cause. X‑rays are often needed.
Based on the diagnosis, your treatment options may include:
– **Root canal treatment (endodontic therapy):** to remove the inflamed or infected pulp and save the tooth.
– **Dental filling:** if decay is shallow or moderate and has not severely damaged the pulp.
– **Other procedures:** such as crowns or, in advanced cases, tooth extraction if the tooth cannot be saved.
Treatment may be started immediately or scheduled within a few days, depending on how severe your nerve pain is and how it is affecting your oral health. While waiting for your appointment, you can use the temporary methods mentioned above to help control the pain.
See also: Dentures | Essential Information You Need to Know
Dental Clinic at Batal Specialized Complex
The dental clinic at Batal Specialized Complex is equipped with advanced tools and technologies to help anyone suffering from tooth pain get relief under the care of highly skilled dentists. Don’t hesitate to book an appointment at the dental clinic of Batal Specialized Complex to address your pain as soon as possible.
Dr. Muslim Mansour
– Specialist in Prosthodontics – Syrian Board in Prosthodontics
– Master’s degree in Prosthodontics
– 16 years of experience in the field of dental prosthetics
