EXPERT
Richard Dawson
Dentist
- Glendale, AZ
- Midwestern University
- Accepting new patients
The Mouth-Body Connection: How Oral Health Impacts Systemic Health
The health of your mouth, teeth, and gums can have a profound impact on the overall health of your body. Contrary to the traditional belief that oral health and systemic health...
Root canal treatment
Here are some tips to help you manage the discomfort while waiting for your next appointment:
Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can often help with mild to moderate dental pain. Make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging, and do not exceed the recommended dose.
Rinse with warm salt water: This can help to clean the area around the tooth and might reduce inflammation and pain. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and then gently swish this solution around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Cold compress: Applying a cold pack to the affected side of your face for 15 minutes at a time may help to reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing temporary relief.
Avoid hard or chewy foods: Eating can sometimes aggravate dental pain, especially if the tooth or surrounding area is sensitive. Try to stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the root canal was performed.
Keep your head elevated: When lying down, try to keep your head propped up on pillows, as lying flat can sometimes increase inflammation and pain.
Remember, these are just general tips for managing dental pain and may not be suitable for everyone. If your pain is severe or you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, swollen glands, or extreme sensitivity to heat or cold, contact your healthcare provider immediately. These could be signs of an infection, which needs to be treated promptly. Always follow your dentist's or endodontist's advice regarding post-treatment care and pain management.
Broken Tooth and Swelling
Swelling and pain could be indicative of an abscess, which is an infection that can potentially spread to other parts of your body if left untreated. It's an urgent situation and you should reach out to a dentist, an endodontist, or an emergency room as soon as possible. Many healthcare providers are offering telemedicine appointments due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and you may be able to have an initial consultation without leaving your home.
Additionally, it's important to note that dental offices and healthcare facilities have put strict hygiene measures and protocols in place to limit the risk of COVID-19 transmission. If you need to physically visit a clinic, they will likely have processes in place to keep you and your children as safe as possible.
Please, don't delay seeking medical attention. Tooth infections can become serious very quickly, and it's important to get the care you need as soon as possible.