Waking up in the morning to find that you have a toothache is no picnic. Dental health is an often overlooked component of your overall health until there is a problem. Preventative dental care is your first step toward avoiding toothaches. However, if you are experiencing a toothache and suspect dental decay or a cavity, there are some things you can do to ease your pain until it's possible to visit the dentist.

Preventative Dental Care
The best way to avoid toothaches and cavities is with preventative dental care. Brush and floss regularly and frequently. See a dentist at least twice a year, and any time you are experiencing pain or problems with your mouth, teeth, gums or jaw. By seeking appropriate preventative dental care, you have the potential to curb toothaches, dental decay and cavities before they occur.

Toothaches and Pain
If preventative dental care doesn't do the trick and you are experiencing a toothache or pain, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, the American Dental Association recommends that if you have a toothache you should rinse with warm water and floss gently. If you suspect that you may have a broken or cracked tooth, you could also apply a cold compress to help with any swelling. In each instance, it's important to remember that tooth pain is a sign of a bigger problem, and seeking appropriate dental treatment is more important than finding a quick fix.

A toothache as a result of cavities or dental decay can be prevented with appropriate dental care on a regular and frequent basis. However, sometimes problems like a cracked or broken tooth can occur without warning. Your best course of action against any toothache or dental pain is to contact your dentist's office and explain the problem immediately. They are the experts, and can best aid you in dealing with your pain and dental problem.

Author: Kelly Herdrich

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