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Toothache

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What is a Toothache?

A toothache refers to pain that originates from within or around a tooth. Toothaches can be one of the most uncomfortable and disruptive pains experienced in daily life. They range from a dull ache to sharp, throbbing pain, often causing difficulty in eating, speaking and even sleeping. 

The most common reason behind toothaches is tooth decay, also known as dental caries or cavities. But did you know that a toothache, more specifically pain around the jaws may also be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, such as a sinus infection or a heart attack?

Therefore, it is important to consult a dentist if you experience persistent or severe tooth pain. Proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental check-ups, can help prevent toothaches.

Why Do I Have A Toothache?

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Tooth Decay or Cavities

Bacteria on our teeth feed on sugar and produce acids that attack the tooth surface, causing decay and tooth pain.

To prevent the cavity from getting bigger, the bacteria must be removed and the damaged tooth surface sealed with dental fillings.

 

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Tooth Infection/Gum Infection

Tooth or gum infections typically result from untreated dental cavities, gum disease or dental trauma.

Depending on the severity of the cracked tooth, treatment options may include root canal treatment to save the tooth or if the tooth is beyond salvageable, tooth extraction.

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Wisdom Tooth Pain

Wisdom teeth often don't have enough space to fully emerge properly. When they become impacted, meaning they can't come in fully or at the right angle, they can cause severe pain, and discomfort.

Removal is often advised for impacted wisdom teeth.


 

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Tooth Sensitivity

Loss of enamel may cause sensitivity when brushing your teeth or when cold air contacts your teeth, leading to brief, intense pain.

Desensitising gels such as fluoride and tooth mousse can be applied to protect the tooth.

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Swollen Gums/Bleeding Gums

It is usually due to inadequate oral hygiene, leading to plaque buildup on teeth and gums. Smoking, poor diet, hormonal changes and certain medications can exacerbate the risk.

A thorough removal of all the buildup of plaque and tartar needs to be done with a procedure known as deep dental cleaning.

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Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth can result from chewing hard objects like ice or hard candies, teeth grinding (bruxism), large dental fillings, trauma or natural aging.

Cracked teeth can be saved with a dental crown while larger cracks may require a root canal and crown or tooth extraction.

asdsda
Tooth Decay or Cavities

Bacteria on our teeth feed on sugar and produce acids that attack the tooth surface, causing decay and tooth pain.

To prevent the cavity from getting bigger, the bacteria must be removed and the damaged tooth surface sealed with dental fillings.

 

regh1
Tooth Infection/Gum Infection

Tooth or gum infections typically result from untreated dental cavities, gum disease or dental trauma.

Depending on the severity of the cracked tooth, treatment options may include root canal treatment to save the tooth or if the tooth is beyond salvageable, tooth extraction.

Untitled design (3)a
Wisdom Tooth Pain

Wisdom teeth often don't have enough space to fully emerge properly. When they become impacted, meaning they can't come in fully or at the right angle, they can cause severe pain, and discomfort.

Removal is often advised for impacted wisdom teeth.


 

c12
Tooth Sensitivity

Loss of enamel may cause sensitivity when brushing your teeth or when cold air contacts your teeth, leading to brief, intense pain.

Desensitising gels such as fluoride and tooth mousse can be applied to protect the tooth.

this1
Swollen Gums/Bleeding Gums

It is usually due to inadequate oral hygiene, leading to plaque buildup on teeth and gums. Smoking, poor diet, hormonal changes and certain medications can exacerbate the risk.

A thorough removal of all the buildup of plaque and tartar needs to be done with a procedure known as deep dental cleaning.

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Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth can result from chewing hard objects like ice or hard candies, teeth grinding (bruxism), large dental fillings, trauma or natural aging.

Cracked teeth can be saved with a dental crown while larger cracks may require a root canal and crown or tooth extraction.

You Don't Have To Tolerate Toothaches.

If you are experiencing any pain or issues with your teeth, we're here to help.

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Treatment for Dental Pain

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When cavities are present, bacteria invade and penetrate the tooth, causing a hole. To prevent the cavity from getting bigger, the bacteria must be removed and the tooth surface sealed.

We offer metal-free dentistry with tooth-coloured fillings.

These fillings can stain over time and may need to be replaced due to wear. For a longer-lasting solution, consider ceramic fillings like inlays or onlays.

Desensitising gels such as fluoride and tooth mousse can be applied to protect the tooth.

Do practice gentle brushing without excessive pressure on the teeth. Avoid brushing for at least 30 minutes after acid exposure (through sour food/drink or after vomiting/acid reflux.)

In more severe cases, fillings may be done to cover the sensitive areas and to protect the tooth against further abrasion and wear.

An x-ray is usually required to check the position and severity of impaction of your wisdom tooth.

The dentist will then recommend options for removal of the wisdom tooth. Surgical removal of wisdom teeth are fully covered under MediSave at our clinic.

If left untreated, the neighbouring tooth may become affected by tooth decay and gum infection and may, in severe cases, become badly infected.

 
 

Depending on the severity, treatment options may include:


You may have an infected tooth with or without abscess. Please see your dentist immediately as these infections can spread and are potentially life threatening.

A thorough removal of all the buildup of soft and hard bacteria (also known as calculus or tartar) needs to be done with a procedure known as deep dental cleaning.

Dental rinses (such as chlorhexidine) to reduce bacteria, and additional cleaning tools (such as interdental toothbrushes) may also be prescribed. To prevent recurrence, oral hygiene must be maintained with regular brushing and flossing.

As periodontal disease is a chronic condition that can cause loss of the gums and bone that support the teeth, it must be kept under control with regular professional dental cleaning.

Gum Disease Linked to Health Disease

Dental health affects general health and gum disease is closely linked to diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, respiratory disease and cancer.

 

Treatment of dental conditions improves general health and quality of life.

Reference: American Association of Periodontology. Please note that this summary is for informational purposes only and not a diagnosis. If you have symptoms or pain, please visit your dentist for a personalised diagnosis.

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How Can I Relieve A Toothache At Home?

Managing a toothache while waiting for your dental appointment can be challenging, as the pain and discomfort can disrupt your daily routine and make it hard to focus. Here are several home remedies you can use to alleviate the discomfort and relieve pain in the meantime.

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Saltwater Rinse

A saltwater rinse is a simple and effective home remedy for various oral health issues, including toothaches. To make a saltwater rinse to ease toothaches, mix about a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Stir the mixture until the salt is dissolved. Then, take a sip of the solution and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Saltwater rinses can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain by drawing out fluids from the gums, reducing swelling and cleansing the affected area. The warm water can also help soothe discomfort. It's important not to swallow the saltwater, as it can be dehydrating. Repeat the salt water rinse two to three times a day or as needed for relief.

 

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Keep Your Mouth Clean

Sometimes, people avoid brushing certain areas of their teeth due to sensitivity or discomfort, but this can lead to food and bacteria buildup, making the pain worse. To prevent this, use a soft toothbrush to clean your teeth and gums gently without causing harm.

Additionally, remember to floss regularly to remove any food particles or debris stuck between your teeth.

 

3-Apr-24-2024-05-18-30-2929-AM
Over-the-counter pain medication

Over-the-counter pain medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen can be effective in managing toothache pain. These medications work by reducing pain and inflammation, making them a common choice for temporary relief from toothaches.

It's important to follow the recommended dosage instructions for these medications and to be aware of any potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking. If you have any concerns or if the pain persists, it's best to consult with your dentist for further advice.

 

4-Apr-24-2024-05-18-30-3169-AM
Avoid Certain Foods

When you have a toothache, it's important to avoid certain foods and beverages that can worsen the pain. Extreme temperatures, such as very hot or very cold foods and drinks, can exacerbate tooth sensitivity and discomfort. It's best to stick to lukewarm or room temperature foods and beverages to prevent triggering or intensifying the pain.

Additionally, avoiding hard foods that require a lot of chewing can help prevent further irritation to the affected tooth. Hard foods can put pressure on the tooth and potentially cause more pain. Instead, avoid chewing them, opt for softer foods that are easier on your teeth and gums.

5-Apr-24-2024-05-18-30-3126-AM
Cold Compress

A cold compress can be a simple and effective way to help alleviate toothache pain and reduce swelling. To apply a cold compress, you can use a clean cloth or towel wrapped around a few ice cubes or a bag of frozen vegetables. Hold the compress against the outside of your cheek, near the painful tooth, for about 15-20 minutes.

The cold temperature of the compress can help numb the area of sore and prevent toothache as is, providing temporary pain relief. It can also help reduce swelling and inflammation, which can contribute to toothache discomfort. However, it's important not to apply the cold compress directly to the skin, as this can cause ice burn. Always wrap the compress in a cloth or towel before applying it to your skin.

Untitled design - 2024-04-24T131817.352
Saltwater Rinse

A saltwater rinse is a simple and effective home remedy for various oral health issues, including toothaches. To make a saltwater rinse to ease toothaches, mix about a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Stir the mixture until the salt is dissolved. Then, take a sip of the solution and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Saltwater rinses can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain by drawing out fluids from the gums, reducing swelling and cleansing the affected area. The warm water can also help soothe discomfort. It's important not to swallow the saltwater, as it can be dehydrating. Repeat the salt water rinse two to three times a day or as needed for relief.

 

2-Apr-24-2024-05-18-30-2961-AM
Keep Your Mouth Clean

Sometimes, people avoid brushing certain areas of their teeth due to sensitivity or discomfort, but this can lead to food and bacteria buildup, making the pain worse. To prevent this, use a soft toothbrush to clean your teeth and gums gently without causing harm.

Additionally, remember to floss regularly to remove any food particles or debris stuck between your teeth.

 

3-Apr-24-2024-05-18-30-2929-AM
Over-the-counter pain medication

Over-the-counter pain medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen can be effective in managing toothache pain. These medications work by reducing pain and inflammation, making them a common choice for temporary relief from toothaches.

It's important to follow the recommended dosage instructions for these medications and to be aware of any potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking. If you have any concerns or if the pain persists, it's best to consult with your dentist for further advice.

 

4-Apr-24-2024-05-18-30-3169-AM
Avoid Certain Foods

When you have a toothache, it's important to avoid certain foods and beverages that can worsen the pain. Extreme temperatures, such as very hot or very cold foods and drinks, can exacerbate tooth sensitivity and discomfort. It's best to stick to lukewarm or room temperature foods and beverages to prevent triggering or intensifying the pain.

Additionally, avoiding hard foods that require a lot of chewing can help prevent further irritation to the affected tooth. Hard foods can put pressure on the tooth and potentially cause more pain. Instead, avoid chewing them, opt for softer foods that are easier on your teeth and gums.

5-Apr-24-2024-05-18-30-3126-AM
Cold Compress

A cold compress can be a simple and effective way to help alleviate toothache pain and reduce swelling. To apply a cold compress, you can use a clean cloth or towel wrapped around a few ice cubes or a bag of frozen vegetables. Hold the compress against the outside of your cheek, near the painful tooth, for about 15-20 minutes.

The cold temperature of the compress can help numb the area of sore and prevent toothache as is, providing temporary pain relief. It can also help reduce swelling and inflammation, which can contribute to toothache discomfort. However, it's important not to apply the cold compress directly to the skin, as this can cause ice burn. Always wrap the compress in a cloth or towel before applying it to your skin.

Creating Smiles, Changing Lives

Over 28 reviews

The service and doctor is the best in town! The customer service and receptionists are very friendly! Dr Phillip Miller and Dr Noah Teo is very nice and very professional on their skill! They also very patient to explain to me about the treatment!

Will come back again!

Thank you very much!

李岳侨
Beautiful and friendly dental clinic, was recommended by my colleague. Been coming here for dental cleaning and fillings. Always a good visit!
J. Kho

This dental clinic has very good staff who are well trained and friendly. The dentists are also very good and will explain the treatment in detail before starting treatment. The equipment is very high tech and I believe they are able to do high quality work as I did my crown here and it looks much better than my colleague who also recently did his at another place. The waiting room is also very comfortable. good job!

C. Zheng De

This clinic is one of the best I have ever seen. I saw dr Justin for my implant which I did many years ago, the tooth was loose, and other drs told me to remove it as they could not find out what brand it was but dr Justin was able to take 3d xrays and locate the brand and specially ordered the part in. he saved me from having to do a surgery to remove and put a new implant which would have cost me a bomb. the tooth looks even better than the original thanks to the experieced dental technician Katsuya from Japan. 

Very happy and will keep coming back for my regular dental. 

G. Hock An

my workplace is close by and I had a problem with my tooth for a few days, so I made an appointment to come down. The receptionist who booked my appointment was very helpful and friendly to explain the way to the clinic from my office. I saw Dr Nicholas who was able to do a root canal treatment on the same visit so that I didn't need to come back. I felt safe and comfortable to do my dental treatment here as the dental picks are all wrapped up and sterilized and only opened before each treatment when im inside. 

P. Wendy

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