Anyone who has suffered with toothache knows the agony it can cause, and understanding the reasons that toothache develops can be helpful in avoiding it. Here at Guiney Dental Clinic, we advise many people with toothache, and help them to prevent problems in the future. Knowing how to look after your teeth and gums correctly can help to maintain good oral health and ensure you have a sparkling smile.
Why Do I Get Toothache?
The enamel that coats each tooth is vital for protection against acid and plaque, but it cannot regenerate itself so it must be preserved with care. When the enamel wears away, the dentin inside the tooth is exposed to heat, cold and acids, which can damage the tooth from the inside. Tooth decay and infection are much more likely to occur, and you may notice inflammation and pain that prompt you to visit the dentist.
The acids in sugary food and drinks are a leading cause of enamel erosion, and bacteria that feed on the carbohydrates in these same foods are a huge red flag for oral health. Toothache can be a warning sign that you need to take better care of your teeth, but it can also reveal major health problems and you should visit your dentist regularly to protect against these.
How To Prevent Toothache
- Cut down your sugar intake. Sugar is a huge problem for teeth, and it is also linked with several dangerous health conditions. If
you don’t want to cut out sugar completely, you can improve your oral health dramatically by reducing your intake and ensuring you brush your teeth after you
have had sugary snacks. Eating sweets directly after meals can help to reduce the harmful effects on teeth, and swapping the sweets for a healthier snack can be
hugely beneficial to your teeth and gums as well as your general health. - Brush well. Brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes is the most important way to protect them against tooth decay
and toothache, and you can get advice from your dental hygienist on the best ways to do this. You should floss your teeth daily to maintain healthy gums, and
talk to your dentist about cleaning treatments if you are concerned. - Visit the dentist. Your dentist can help you to care for your teeth properly, and show you how to prevent tooth decay that leads to
toothache. Talk to your dentist about any concerns you may have, and always visit the dentist as soon as you become aware of a problem rather than hoping it will
resolve itself – the chances are that it won’t! You should visit your dentist every 6-12 months, and arrange to see your dental hygienist for a clean and polish
at regular intervals.
Are You Looking for a Ballincollig Dentist?
It’s very important to maintain good dental health throughout your lifetime, and a great dentist is a vital part of this process. At Guiney Dental Practice, we have a friendly team of experienced dentists and dental hygienists, and we would be delighted to meet you. To make an appointment, call the Guiney Dental Clinic today on 021-481 0535.