Toothaches are common enough that many people take a do-it-yourself attitude when it comes to dealing with theirs. The thing is, a toothache doesn’t mean the same thing for everyone, and some common home remedies may relieve some, but not others. Fortunately, not every toothache is an emergency situation, and if the cause of your tooth sensitivity is addressed soon enough, you may be able to find relief without needing professional treatment for it.
It depends on why your tooth hurts
Given how many different potential reasons there may be for your tooth to hurt, you can’t successfully deal with a toothache until you know what’s causing it. Unfortunately, this may not be obvious to you without a professional dental examination. However, if you’ve been consistent with your dental care until now, then you may be aware of your specific risk factors. For example, your dentist may have told you that your tooth enamel is weak, and that without proper care, you may be at risk of a cavity. If your tooth starts to feel sensitive, it may be a warning to pay closer attention to your hygiene routine and take steps to strengthen your teeth.
What you should do first
Strengthening your teeth, especially the mineralized enamel that protects them, is a multi-step process that involves consistently cleaning them, reducing their exposure, and boosting their mineral supply. To do this, try:
- Brushing and flossing more consistently – The most common cause of weakened tooth enamel is the excess buildup of oral bacteria on your teeth (in the form of plaque and tartar). You can boost your chances of avoiding or improving tooth sensitivity by being more consistent in your dental hygiene routine, meaning brushing away plaque at least twice every day and flossing at least once.
- Substituting soft drinks for water – Oral bacteria are a common threat, but many of today’s most popular foods and beverages are no friend to your teeth, either. For example, sodas and fruit juices often contain high levels of sugar and acid, which can promote faster erosion of your tooth enamel and leave them much more vulnerable to sensitivity, decay, and more.
- Eating a more well-balanced diet – In addition to avoiding harmful foods and beverages, you can improve the health and strength of your teeth by eating a well-balanced diet, with plenty of essential minerals and nutrients. For instance, your tooth enamel is made almost entirely of calcium, and your diet is the only way your body and teeth can receive enough of it to keep your tooth enamel adequately mineralized.
Learn how to deal with your toothache
Toothaches are different for everyone, and dealing with yours depends on several factors. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, call Lake Orion Family Dentistry in Lake Orion, MI, today at 248-693-6213.
