The tooth enamel on the outside of your teeth can erode when certain acids in your mouth break it down. When the enamel breaks down, the tooth nerve endings can become exposed, thus causing a tooth ache. Sometimes, if the pain lessens or diminishes, it may be because the nerve ending has died. Even if this is the case, the decay will still be present and must be treated immediately by a dentist. If the pain worsens, it could be because of an infection.

There are a few ways to help prevent a toothache from occurring. One of the most important things you can do to prevent a toothache is brushing and flossing your teeth regularly. This can prevent tooth decay and kill the bad bacteria in your mouth. Toothpastes and rinses containing fluoride are also a good option. Make sure to discuss what option is best for you with your dentist.

Flossing your teeth every night is a must. A tooth brush can only reach certain exposed areas of your teeth, leaving food and plaque stuck in hard to reach places. The food and plaque will eventually cause tooth decay and cavities if left within your teeth. So make sure to floss at least once a day, preferably before bed, in order to remove the food and plaque that isn’t always visible.

There are certain reasons for tooth decay that can’t always be avoided, such as hereditary factors and lack of saliva. If you don’t produce enough saliva on your own, chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate the production of saliva. Saliva helps neutralize the acids inside your mouth during the breakdown of foods.

To temporarily relieve a toothache, there are some over the counter gels and creams you can apply to your teeth that will help reduce the pain. Certain topical analgesics can also reduce the pain temporarily. Ibuprofen may also help. Make sure to ask your doctor or dentist what you should take before using any medication, drugs, gels, or creams.

For starters, try a softer bristled toothbrush. This will result in less abrasion on your tooth’s surface and won’t irritate your gums as much as other bristles. A desensitizing toothpaste can also help your teeth. There are multiple brands that make this kind of toothpaste so test them out to see which one works best with you.

Foods that are highly acidic can dissolve your tooth enamel, exposing the dentin (The main, calcareous part of a tooth, beneath the enamel and surrounding the pulp chamber and root canals). So watch what you eat because sensitivity can easily be triggered this way.

Using dental products containing fluoride, not tarter control, can reduce sensitivity when used correctly. A fluoride mouth wash is a good option but talk to your dentist for specific products. If you tend to clench or grind your teeth, wear a mouth guard while you sleep because this can also lead to tooth sensitivity.