What Should You Do for Toothache Caused by “Excess Heat”?

May 16, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
If toothache occurs during a “heatiness” episode, a dentist should examine the teeth to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. Toothache caused by dental caries requires immediate dental intervention for cavity filling. For toothache resulting from apical periodontitis or pulpitis, root canal treatment is necessary; teeth that have lost their functional or structural viability must be extracted. In cases of pericoronitis associated with impacted wisdom teeth—manifesting as “heatiness” and toothache—oral anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed for pain relief.

Many patients experience toothache due to “excess internal heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept), which is quite common. So, what should be done for toothache caused by excess internal heat?

Management of Toothache Caused by Excess Internal Heat

If tooth pain occurs during a period of excess internal heat, consult a dentist to evaluate the condition of your teeth and identify the underlying cause, so appropriate, targeted treatment can be administered. For toothache resulting from dental caries, prompt dental filling is essential. Toothache caused by periapical periodontitis or pulpitis requires root canal therapy; teeth that have lost their functional or structural viability must be extracted. In cases of pericoronitis around impacted wisdom teeth—often associated with excess internal heat and tooth pain—oral anti-inflammatory medications may help alleviate pain and inflammation. If recurrent inflammation or persistent pain occurs around the wisdom tooth, extraction may be considered after the acute inflammation has subsided. Some people mistakenly believe that taking “heat-clearing” herbal remedies alone is sufficient to treat toothache related to excess internal heat. This notion is incorrect. If the teeth themselves are healthy and free of pathology, excess internal heat alone will not cause tooth pain.

To relieve toothache associated with excess internal heat, you may apply an ice pack externally to reduce swelling and discomfort, rinse your mouth with warm saline solution, or chew a small piece of fresh ginger—all of which may help ease symptoms. For severe pain, over-the-counter analgesics may be used. Acupressure on the Hegu (LI4) point may also provide relief. If these measures fail to adequately alleviate symptoms, professional medical evaluation is strongly recommended.

For toothache linked to excess internal heat, increase intake of warm water and maintain rigorous oral hygiene. Incorporate foods known for their heat-clearing and detoxifying properties into your diet, such as celery, bitter melon, mung beans, chrysanthemum flowers, lily bulbs, lotus seeds, and duck meat. Should tooth pain persist, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed under a physician’s guidance. We hope this article has been helpful. Wishing you a joyful life and optimal health!

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