General Dentistry | Eric Felt, D.D.S

Toothaches are unwelcome visitors in anyone’s life, disrupting daily routines, making it difficult to eat, and even interrupting sleep. Whether the discomfort is caused by a cavity, sensitivity, gum disease, or trauma, finding relief from tooth pain is a top priority.

If toothaches are hindering your quality of life, keep reading to learn how to navigate the discomfort and hopefully find relief. In this blog post, we’ll delve into a variety of solutions, including a wide range of both at-home remedies and professional dental treatments.

Causes of Toothaches

Before we get into toothache treatments, it’s essential to first understand some of the causes of tooth pain. When you’re able to recognize possible underlying issues contributing to your discomfort, you can more effectively determine which pain relief strategies will provide the greatest relief, restoring your happy, healthy smile.

Some toothache causes are more obvious — new molars coming in, a loose baby tooth, or newly adjusted braces — while some are harder to pinpoint. Some additional causes of tooth pain include:

Cavities and decay: Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of toothaches. When plaque accumulates on the surface of the teeth, it produces acids that erode the enamel, leading to cavities and decay. This exposes the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, causing pain.
Gum disease: Different forms of gum disease, including periodontitis and gingivitis, can contribute to toothaches. In its advanced stages, gum disease deteriorates the tissue that supports the teeth, resulting in tenderness and discomfort.
Tooth sensitivity: Some individuals experience pain due to tooth sensitivity, which may be a result of the porous tissue beneath the enamel, also known as dentin, becoming exposed. Sensitivity can be triggered by hot or cold foods or beverages.
Cracked or fractured teeth: Teeth grinding (bruxism), trauma, or biting into hard objects can cause cracks or fractures in the teeth, leading to toothaches. In some cases, the pain can be intermittent, which makes it difficult to identify the root cause of discomfort.

At-Home Remedies

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, there are many home remedies you can try to alleviate your discomfort.

#1. Saltwater Rinse

Saltwater rinses are one of the simplest yet most effective at-home remedies for tooth pain. Create a mouthwash by mixing one teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water, swish it around your mouth, and then spit it into the sink. This helps reduce inflammation and cleanse the affected area.

#2. Cold Compress

Wrap an ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables in a towel to make a cold compress and apply it to the outside of your cheek near the affected tooth to numb the area and reduce swelling.

#3. Cloves or Clove Oil

In addition to being a popular spice, cloves have natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. For temporary pain relief, you can try chewing on a whole clove or applying a small amount of clove oil to the affected tooth using a cotton ball.

#4. Peppermint Tea Bags

Like cloves, peppermint’s uses extend beyond the culinary — it also has mild numbing properties that can help soothe your discomfort. Steep a peppermint tea bag in hot water, remove it, and then allow it to cool slightly before placing it against the affected area to alleviate pain.

#5. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

Rinsing your mouth with hydrogen peroxide can reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water, swish the solution for about 30 seconds, and then spit it out. Be careful not to swallow it.

Your Complete Guide to Dental Care: Answers to 8 Oral Health FAQs | Eric Felt DDS Cottonwood Heights Utah / toothache

Professional Dental Treatments

If at-home treatments are not effective in managing your toothache or the pain occurs due to tissue damage, these professional dental treatments can help you find relief.

#6. Dental Fillings

If a cavity is the root cause of your tooth pain, getting it filled is the most effective way to find relief. To restore tooth function and comfort, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and then fill the cavity with a specialized dental material.

#7. Root Canal Therapy

Root canals are recommended for situations in which the tooth’s pulp is inflamed or infected. For this procedure, your dentist will remove the damaged pulp, clean the area, and seal it to prevent further infection. This treatment is virtually painless, despite its reputation, and can save a severely damaged tooth.

#8. Gum Disease Treatment

Depending on the severity of your gum disease, your dentist may recommend various periodontal treatments, including scaling and root planings, professional cleanings, or surgical interventions.

#9. Tooth Extraction

If a tooth is severely damaged or decayed beyond repair, it may be necessary to extract it to prevent further complications and eliminate pain. You may be able to take advantage of tooth replacement options like bridges or dental implants to maintain your smile’s functionality and appearance.

#10. Prescription Medications

For severe cases of tooth pain or inflammation, your dentist may prescribe pain relievers or antibiotics.

Toothache Treatment by Dr. Eric Felt

Seeking prompt dental care is essential in identifying the cause of your toothache and finding effective solutions. Whether it’s a minor annoyance or excruciating pain, our dedicated team at Eric Felt D.D.S. can help you find lasting relief. Contact us today to begin your journey toward a future filled with pain-free smiles.

seniors Cottonwood Heights UT Eric Felt Dental

As we journey through life, our bodies change, and so do our dental needs. Just like any other aspect of our well-being, our oral health requires special considerations as we grow older.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of dental care for seniors and give some essential tips to ensure your smile remains happy and healthy throughout your golden years.

#1. Regular Dental Check-Ups

As we age, one of the most important aspects of dental care is regular check-ups at the dentist’s office. Seniors have a greater risk of developing oral health issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Regular exams allow the dentist to check for signs of these issues and address them early, preventing them from becoming more serious.

Typically, it’s best to go in for a check-up, but your dentist may suggest a different schedule based on your individual needs.

#2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene habits are the cornerstone of maintaining a healthy smile, regardless of age; however, for seniors, it becomes even more crucial. As you age, make sure you:

Brush regularly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Consider using an electric toothbrush, which may be easier to handle if you have dexterity issues.
Floss daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque trapped between your teeth and along the gumline. If traditional flossing is challenging for you, try using interdental brushes or water flossers.
Use an antiseptic mouthwash: Antiseptic mouthwash can help get rid of bacteria in your mouth and freshen your breath.

#3. Be Mindful of Diet

10 Essential Dental Care Tips for Seniors

Your diet can have a significant impact on your oral health. As you grow older, it’s important to be mindful of what you eat and drink:

Limit sugary foods and beverages: Sugar is a major contributor to tooth decay, especially if it’s left on your teeth for an extended period of time. Reduce your sugar intake and opt for healthier alternatives.
Stay hydrated: Dry mouth is a common issue in seniors and can contribute to tooth decay. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and wash away food particles and bacteria.
Consume calcium-rich foods: Calcium helps you maintain strong teeth and bones. Make sure you’re getting enough calcium in your diet by incorporating leafy greens, dairy products, and fortified foods.

#4. Address Issues Promptly

When dental problems arise, don’t ignore them — even seemingly minor issues like bleeding gums or tooth sensitivity can be signs of more significant problems. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent them from escalating and becoming harder and more costly to treat.

#5. Consider Specialized Dental Care

As you grow older, you may require specialized dental care. Your dentist can help you determine if you could benefit from treatments such as implants, dentures, ven e ers, periodontics, or orthodontics.

#6. Be Aware of Medication Side Effects

Many seniors take medication to manage various health conditions. If you’re on any medication, be aware of any potential side effects that could affect your oral health. Some medications are known to cause dry mouth, which can increase your risk of certain issues. If you’re concerned about any of these side effects, talk to your dentist to determine whether a change is necessary.

#7. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are known to stain tooth enamel and have detrimental effects on oral health. To decrease your risk of oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay, seek support to quit smoking and limit your alcohol intake.

#8. Stay Active

Maintaining an active lifestyle in your golden years can benefit your oral health. Regular exercise improves circulation throughout the body, including blood flow to your gums, which promotes healthy gum tissue.

#9. Maintain Good Mental Health

Mental health is closely linked to physical health. High stress levels can cause teeth grinding and jaw clenching, which puts your teeth at risk of breaking or becoming worn down. Practice stress-reduction techniques to protect your dental health.

#10. Invest in Preventive Dentistry

Preventative dentistry is your greatest tool for maintaining your oral health as you age. Dental cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, and other treatments can help protect your teeth and gums from wear and tear over time.

High-Quality Dental Care for Everyone, From Children to Seniors

At the office of Dr. Eric Felt, we are proud to treat patients of all ages, from young pediatric patients to seniors. Professional exams and cleanings are essential for everyone, regardless of age, so protect your oral health by scheduling an appointment with us today.

When it comes to oral health, most people focus on their teeth and gums but overlook a crucial component — their tongue. Your tongue is not only responsible for taste and speech, but it also plays a significant role in maintaining the health of your mouth and requires proper care to ensure overall oral hygiene. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the importance of tongue care and provide you with essential tips to keep your whole mouth in great shape.

The Role of the Tongue

Your tongue has many functions in addition to allowing you to eat your favorite foods, including:

Speech articulation: In order to form words correctly and make certain sounds, your tongue moves against the roof of your mouth and teeth.
Digestion: Your tongue aids in the initial breakdown of food. It pushes food particles against your teeth as you chew, initiating the digestive process.
Cleaning mechanism: Because of your tongue’s rough surface, it can help keep your mouth clean by manually removing food particles and bacteria from all the little nooks and crannies in your mouth.
Taste sensation: Your taste buds are located on your tongue and allow you to perceive different tastes, from salty to sweet to bitter.
Oral hygiene: Neglecting proper tongue care can lead to the buildup of bacteria in the mouth, contributing to bad breath, tooth decay, and other oral health issues.

9 Essential Tips for Tongue Care

With a little extra effort, you can take proper care of your tongue and ensure your whole mouth stays clean and healthy.

Daily tongue cleaning: Just as you brush your teeth twice a day, you also need to make a habit of cleaning your tongue regularly. You can use a special tongue scraper or the soft bristles of your toothbrush to gently clean the surface of your tongue. As you clean, start from the back and move forward, being careful not to apply too much pressure. The goal is to remove bacteria and debris, not to scrub the tongue vigorously and cause irritation.
Mind your toothbrush: If you use a toothbrush to clean your tongue, make sure it has soft bristles to avoid causing irritation.
Hydration is key: Adequate water intake doesn’t just keep your body hydrated; it also helps your mouth produce saliva. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria in the mouth, making it a crucial part of your mouth’s self-cleaning process.
Balanced diet: In addition to improving your overall wellness, eating nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables helps you maintain a healthy tongue. Certain nutrients, like zinc and vitamin B12, are especially good for tongue health.
Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol: Tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a number of oral health issues, including tongue discoloration and irritation. Minimizing or quitting these habits can greatly improve your tongue health.
Monitor your tongue: Regularly examine your tongue in the mirror, looking out for any changes in texture, color, or the presence of unusual white patches. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, reach out to your dentist.
Regular dental visits: Dentists are trained to be able to identify any possible issues with your tongue and provide appropriate guidance for care.
Use mouthwash: Incorporate an antimicrobial, alcohol-free mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine to help control bacteria in your mouth, including on your tongue.
Healthy oral habits: Tongue care is just one aspect of oral health. Brushing and flossing your teeth, along with regular cleanings and exams, are just as important. Together, all these healthy habits contribute to your overall wellness.

Benefits of Proper Tongue Care

Caring for your tongue isn’t just about avoiding bad breath; it’s an important factor in your overall health and well-being. There are many benefits to practicing good tongue hygiene, including:

Improved breath: A cleaner tongue contributes to fresher breath by eliminating odor-causing bacteria.
Reduced bacteria: Cleaning your tongue regularly helps remove the bacteria in your mouth that causes tooth decay and gum disease.
Enhanced taste: When your tongue is clean, it allows your taste buds to function optimally, enhancing your ability to taste and enjoy food.
Prevention of oral health issues: With proper tongue care, you can prevent issues like coated tongue and oral thrush, along with other oral health problems.

Improve Your Overall Oral Health

Tongue care is just one aspect of oral health and proper hygiene. To take care of your whole mouth and ensure your smile is happy and healthy for years to come, schedule an appointment with the office of Dr. Eric Felt today!

Monday	7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday	7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday	7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday	7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday	7:00 AM - 5:00 PM*
Saturday	Closed
Sunday	Closed

10 Effective Remedies for Toothaches