A tooth abscess is caused by an infection inside the tooth, the pulp. A pulp infection on the upper jaw is more likely to cause your face and head to ache and the pain may be very intense. Infections of the gum or impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to facial pain and headaches. These conditions require immediate dental attention to spare your tooth’s life and health.

Another type of infection can occur after a tooth extraction. The exposed site has potential for an infection which can even occur several days to more than a week after the date of extraction. The pain can sometimes travel to the rest of the face, head, and neck or will remain just on the local area. The exposed socket must be treated if an infection occurs or it will only worsen over time and may lead to other dental conditions.

Problems with the joint of the jaw are generalized as temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD). The symptoms of TMD include localized pain and pain in the neck, head, ears, and temple. Sometimes clicking noises can be heard when opening and closing the jaw. In more severe cases, the jaw may lock in one position.

Treatment of dental and jaw related headaches and pain should start with treatment of the pain’s source. If it is due to dental conditions or a joint problem, make an appointment with one of our cosmetic dentists in order to begin proper treatment. Without treatment, the condition and pain will only get worse and can lead to other severe problems.

Pain is always common after a tooth extraction procedure. If this pain suddenly becomes worse in the days following the procedure, it could be a sign of dry socket. A sharp and sudden increase in pain which can also be accompanied with a foul taste or smell are symptoms of dry socket. This pain can travel up and down the neck and head, possibly reaching your ears.

Smoking is a large cause of dry socket. It impedes the healing of wounds anywhere on your body, especially the mouth where smoke has been inhaled. It decreases the amount of oxygen available in the healing tissues.

The use of hormonal contraceptives can also be a risk factor for dry socket, while women in general are at a higher risk because of estrogen. Estrogen also slows down the healing process in your body but not as significantly as smoking.

Dentists have advised their patients to avoid drinking through straws following an extraction procedure. Straws create negative pressure in the mouth which can dislodge the clot. This is the same reason for avoiding spitting saliva or anything from your mouth due to the negative pressure it creates.

Rinsing with warm salt water and maintaining good oral hygiene is highly advised to avoid getting dry socket. Only brush non sensitive areas of your mouth., avoiding the area of extraction. This should begin 24 hours after the procedure.

There is no actual treatment for dry socket as it tends to heal on its own over time. The pain usually lasts for a few days and will eventually subside. You can obtain a sedative dressing from your dentist to place over the inflamed area to soothe the swelling. If the pain is too intense, your dentist or doctor might prescribe additional analgesics.

Not only can the piece of jewelry build up bacteria, it can chip and fracture your teeth. This is the most common dental problem caused by oral piercings. This can occur while talking, eating, chewing, and possibly sleeping. Depending on the severity of the fracture, a filling or root canal will have to be done to save the tooth.

A tongue piercing can lead to higher levels of bacteria in your body and heart. When the tongue is pierced, it is exposing the center of your tongue, allowing bacteria to travel through your bloodstream. This bacteria and plaque can travel to your heart and damage arteries and cell walls and could possibly cause other cardiovascular problems.

Other risks associated with oral piercings include infections, swelling, pain, scarring, tooth loss, gum damage, loss of taste, and mouth sores. If you are considering an oral piercing, make sure you are committed to good oral hygiene first. Taking proper care of the piercing area and the jewelry will decrease your chances of infection. If possible, remove the jewelry while sleeping and eating to reduce the risk of a chipped or fractured tooth.

Pain and discomfort is common after a root canal and will eventually subside. If desired, it can be treated with over the counter pain medications such as ibuprofen. The medicine will alleviate swelling and sensitivity. Discuss this with your dentist and doctor to find out which medication is right for you.

It is wise to minimize chewing on this tooth until the entire procedure is completely finished. This will decrease the chances of the same tooth getting contaminated again or breaking from fragility. Brushing and flossing your teeth as you normally would will prevent bacteria from building up inside your mouth and within your teeth. Routine dental checkups are important for the maintenance of your teeth post-procedure.

Sleeping with your head elevated for the first few nights will take away from unnecessary pressure on your tooth. Eating soft foods for the first few days is advised, avoiding extremely hot or cold temperatures. Your dentist may put you on an antibiotic regimen that you must follow to ensure the recovery of your tooth.

Smoking should be eliminated for at least the first 24 hours and then cut down afterwards because it can slow down the healing process. Avoid alcoholic beverages and strenuous exercise until you are completely healed. By following these safety precautions, you have a better chance of adequately healing and maybe even forgetting you had a root canal to begin with.