Problem solver

Toothache

There are a number of different types of dental pain, as well as a number of causes.

Temporary pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods can be caused by sensitive teeth. Often this problem can be alleviated by using a toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth, but if after a few weeks it has not got any better please come and see us.

Lingering pain or toothache, or a sharp pain when biting down, is usually an indication that the tooth is decayed, cracked or otherwise damaged. Please arrange an appointment to see us as soon as you can so we can stop the problem from getting any worse.

Constant and severe pain means you may have an abscess caused by an infection. You should see us as soon as possible – we will be able to reduce the pain by giving you antibiotics, and will be able to treat the tooth once the inflammation has gone.

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Anxiety or nervousness when visiting the dentist

We understand that some people feel very anxious or nervous about visiting the dentist. It may be the whole experience that worries you, or perhaps just one aspect.

Whatever your concerns are, please do let us know about them. We will do our best to make you feel relaxed and at ease. If you still feel you need an extra helping hand to get you through an appointment or procedure, we can offer a pre-appointment sedative.

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Jaw or head aches

Headaches, neck, shoulder and back pain and a host of other facial and jaw problems can often be traced back to the jaw joint, which means your dentist rather than your doctor may well be the best person to help ease them. If you suffer from any of these symptoms, it is worth speaking to us about it. We will examine your jaw, and the way in which your teeth meet together, and if there are any problems we will advise you on the best way to overcome them.

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Tooth grinding

Tooth grinding, particularly at night, is very common, affecting up to 50% of people. It can cause sore facial muscles, headaches, ear aches and neck pain, and can also cause the teeth to become ground down and more sensitive.
Stress and anxiety can be a major cause – if you can reduce your stress levels you will often see a dramatic change in your tooth-grinding habits. If this doesn’t work, we may well be able to help, so do make an appointment to see us.

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Dry mouth

Dry mouth, or Xerostomia, is becoming increasingly common. It can be a side-effect of some medication, or can be as a result of medical conditions, or even ageing. Symptoms can be relieved by sipping water regularly, chewing sugar-free gum or using glycerine mouthwashes or artificial saliva sprays. Saliva plays a vital role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy, so if you do have a dry mouth problem it is important to let us know about it.

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Broken tooth
If you have broken your tooth, it is best to call us for advice immediately. If you have any broken-off pieces, place them in clean water – we may be able to use them to help repair the tooth. If the damage is bad, we may need to see you straight away, but for a minor break with no pain a scheduled appointment will be fine.

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Tooth accidentally knocked out

Whatever the circumstances, if your tooth is knocked out you should seek emergency dental help immediately – the quicker you are treated the greater the chance of saving the tooth. When handling the tooth, hold it by the crown (the top bit) and not the root. Do not rinse or clean it – either hold it in your cheek (not recommended for children) or put it in a glass of milk.

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Chewing difficulties

Chewing difficulties are most commonly linked with denture wearing. The dentures may not fit properly or may be worn down, which makes it difficult to eat properly. Chewing can also be troublesome if you have teeth missing, or if tooth restorations are not quite right. If you would like to eat comfortably again, please speak to us about it – we have a range of solutions to help you.

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