6 Bad Advice for Toothache
A tooth is a complex structure that consists of enamel, dentin, pulp, and root, all of which perform important functions. If just one part of the tooth begins to decay or become inflamed, it causes unbearable pain. But instead of going to the dentist, many people try to relieve their discomfort with home remedies or the advice of friends. The problem is that such methods not only don't address the cause of the pain, but often make it worse. In this article, we have gathered six of the most common bad advice for toothache, which can lead to complications, inflammation, or even tooth loss.
1. Place an aspirin tablet directly on the tooth
This advice is the most common, but dangerous. Aspirin has a pain-relieving effect, but only when taken orally. If the pill is placed on the gums or a sore tooth, the acid it contains burns the oral mucosa. This leads to a chemical burn, which is accompanied by severe pain, redness, and ulcers. This causes not one but two painful conditions: toothache and gum inflammation.
For tooth pain in Bushwick, you can take painkillers (like ibuprofen or paracetamol), but never place the pills on your gums. Be sure to schedule your dental appointment, as painkillers only relieve the symptoms, not the cause.
2. Rinse your mouth with alcohol to kill the bacteria
Many people believe that alcohol disinfects the mouth. However, this is a misconception. While alcohol has an antiseptic effect, the oral mucosa is too sensitive to such aggressive substances. Concentrated alcohol destroys tissue, causes burns, and can even worsen inflammation.
Moreover, alcohol can’t kill bacteria buried deep in cavities or tooth roots. It only produces a temporary sensation of warmth and numbness. This causes the infection to progress and postpones treatment. It's much safer to use over-the-counter antiseptics, but only after consulting a doctor.
3. Just be patient, it will go away on its own
One of the most damaging pieces of advice is to ignore pain. Toothaches never occur without a reason. They are always a signal from the body about inflammation, infection, tooth decay, or gum problems.
If you don't see a doctor immediately, tooth decay can quickly develop into pulpitis—a nerve inflammation accompanied by severe pain. If this stage is skipped, the infection can spread to the tooth root and cause periodontitis or even an abscess. In advanced cases, bacteria enter the bloodstream, which is dangerous for the entire body. Remember: If the pain lasts more than 24 hours or worsens, don't just endure it; see a dentist.
4. Use a heating pad
While heat can temporarily relieve cramps and improve circulation, it is extremely dangerous for a toothache. In most cases, the pain is caused by inflammation, and heat increases circulation, which in turn increases swelling and pain.
If pus has already formed in the tooth or gum, heat can cause the abscess to burst into the soft tissue of the face, which can lead to the spread of the infection. Therefore, avoid hot compresses, heating pads, or hot towels for a toothache. It's best to apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
5. If a tooth is broken, just leave it alone
Some people think they can just get on with their lives if a tooth is broken but not causing much pain. However, the exposed tooth surface is a gateway for bacteria. Microcracks and chips allow bacteria to quickly penetrate and damage the pulp and root tissue.
In addition, the sharp edges of a broken tooth can injure the tongue and gums, leading to ulcers and inflammation. Even with mild or no pain, a broken tooth requires urgent dental examination. The dentist will assess the extent of the damage and recommend a restoration, filling, or crown.
6. Use cloves, garlic, or baking soda
Home remedies such as clove oil, a clove of garlic, or a baking soda solution are often considered harmless. However, if misused, they can cause mucous membrane burns, allergic reactions, and other tissue irritations.
Garlic, for example, contains allicin, a natural antiseptic. However, applying it to the gums can cause chemical burns. Baking soda disrupts the acid-base balance in the mouth, drying out the mucous membranes and making them vulnerable to bacteria. Clove oil, used moderately, can temporarily relieve sensitivity, but it won't relieve inflammation or infection. All of these home remedies may provide short-term relief, but they only worsen the problem in the long run.
About the Creator
Amelia Grant
I am journalist, and blogger.
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