Experiencing a tooth thats too painful to touch can be one of the most unbearable types of dental pain. Whether its a severe toothache, an abscess, or an injury, the discomfort can often interfere with your daily life and leave you feeling desperate for relief. While seeking professional dental care is essential, understanding how to manage the pain in the meantime is crucial to minimizing discomfort until you can receive treatment.
In this blog, we will guide you through the steps you can take when a tooth is too painful to touch, the possible causes of this type of pain, and how to handle the situation effectively until you can see a dentist.
Understanding the Causes of Severe Tooth Pain
A tooth that is painful to touch often indicates that the tooth or surrounding structures are severely irritated or infected. Common causes of intense tooth pain include:
Tooth Decay (Cavities): If tooth decay has reached the deeper layers of the tooth, it can cause significant pain. The nerve inside the tooth may become exposed, leading to sharp, throbbing pain.
Dental Abscess: An abscess is a pocket of infection that forms at the root of the tooth or in the gums. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity to touch, and the infection can spread if not treated promptly.
Tooth Fractures or Cracks: A cracked or broken tooth can expose the sensitive inner pulp, causing excruciating pain when touched or when pressure is applied while chewing.
Gum Infection (Gingivitis or Periodontitis): Infections in the gums can lead to pain that radiates into the tooth, making it painful to touch. Gum disease can also cause swelling, bleeding, and tenderness.
Tooth Sensitivity: Sometimes, tooth sensitivity can cause discomfort, especially with certain foods or beverages. If the sensitivity is severe, it can make the tooth painful to touch.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially while sleeping, can cause pain and sensitivity in the teeth, making them more sensitive to touch.
Sinus Infection: A sinus infection can cause referred pain in the upper teeth, particularly in the molars. This type of pain can feel similar to a toothache, but the cause is actually sinus pressure.
Immediate Steps to Take When a Tooth Is Too Painful to Touch
If your tooth is painful to the touch, here are the steps you should take to manage the pain and prevent further damage:
1. Rinse Your Mouth with Warm Saltwater
Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce tooth pain and inflammation. Saltwater helps to clean the affected area, flush out any food particles, and reduce swelling.
Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gently rinse your mouth for about 30 seconds. Spit the solution out and repeat as needed.
Saltwater may also help soothe an abscess or gum infection by creating an environment that prevents bacteria from growing.
2. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), or aspirin can help relieve the discomfort. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the packaging and avoid placing aspirin directly on the affected tooth or gums, as this can cause burns to the tissue.
Ibuprofen: Helps reduce pain and inflammation, especially if there is swelling around the tooth.
Acetaminophen: Good for pain relief, but it does not have anti-inflammatory properties like ibuprofen.
These medications can provide temporary relief until you can see a dentist for a more thorough evaluation and treatment.
3. Apply a Cold Compress
If the pain is accompanied by swelling, a cold compress can help reduce the swelling and numb the pain. Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek where the painful tooth is located. Apply for 15-20 minutes at a time, allowing your skin to rest between applications.
Note: Do not apply the ice directly to your tooth, as this can worsen sensitivity or pain. The cold compress should be placed on the cheek to reduce swelling in the area.
4. Avoid Triggering Foods or Drinks
Certain foods and drinks can aggravate a painful tooth. Avoid hot, cold, acidic, or sugary foods and beverages until you can visit your dentist. These substances can irritate the tooth further, intensifying pain and discomfort.
Avoid: Ice-cold beverages, hot coffee, acidic fruits, and sticky or hard foods like candy, which can get stuck in the tooth or aggravate sensitivity.
5. Use Clove Oil for Temporary Relief
Clove oil is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to relieve dental pain. It contains eugenol, which has numbing and antiseptic properties that can provide temporary relief for tooth pain.
To use clove oil, soak a small piece of cotton in the oil and place it on the affected tooth. You can also dilute clove oil with a carrier oil (like olive oil) to avoid irritation to your gums or mucous membranes.
Important Note: While clove oil can provide temporary relief, it does not treat the underlying cause of the pain. Be sure to visit a dentist as soon as possible.
6. Avoid Touching or Probing the Tooth
It can be tempting to touch or poke at the painful tooth to try and identify the cause of the pain. However, touching or probing the tooth may worsen the pain and cause further irritation or injury to the affected area.
Keep your hands and tongue away from the painful tooth to avoid aggravating the situation.
7. Visit Your Dentist as Soon as Possible
While these steps can help manage the pain temporarily, it is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible. If your tooth is too painful to touch, it is a sign that something more serious is going on, such as an infection or a deep cavity, that requires professional attention.
Emergency Care: Many dental offices offer emergency care for situations like this, especially if you are experiencing severe pain. Call your dentist immediately and explain your symptoms to get an urgent appointment.
Preventing Tooth Pain and Sensitivity in the Future
To prevent future tooth pain or sensitivity, consider implementing the following dental care habits:
Maintain Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. This can help detect issues like cavities, gum disease, or cracks before they become painful emergencies.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Proper oral hygiene can help prevent cavities and gum disease, both of which can lead to painful tooth issues.
Use Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth: If you experience regular tooth sensitivity, use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes contain ingredients that can help block pain signals from reaching the nerve of your tooth.
Protect Your Teeth from Injury: If you participate in contact sports or activities that pose a risk of dental injury, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth from fractures and other injuries.
Conclusion
Tooth pain thats too intense to touch can be caused by various dental issues, ranging from cavities to infections. While the pain can be overwhelming, there are several steps you can take to manage the discomfort until you can see your dentist. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can reduce pain, prevent further damage, and ensure that you receive the necessary care for your dental emergency.