Toothache is a common symptom in daily life. When many people experience toothache, they try to endure it or take some anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve the pain. But have you ever thought about using acupressure massage to alleviate toothache? In this article, I will introduce the traditional Chinese medicine massage method for relieving toothache.
Frequent Causes of Toothache
1. Acute pulpitis
It is commonly seen in patients with deep dental caries, where bacteria enter the pulp cavity and cause congestion and inflammation of the dental nerve. Toothache is usually spontaneous, worsens at night, intensifies after cold or hot stimulation, and can radiate to the face, temple, and ears.
2. Acute periodontitis
The nature of toothache is similar to acute apical periodontitis. The affected tooth not only experiences pain during chewing and a feeling of swelling, but also has periodontal pockets and tooth mobility. The gum tissue may appear repeated swelling, pain, and bleeding.
3. Dentin hypersensitivity
It is often caused by gum recession, exposure of dentin at the neck of the tooth, and tooth defects. Cold, hot, sweet, sour, and other stimuli can cause pain, but the pain disappears after the stimulus stops. This is also a common cause of toothache in adults.
4. Food impaction and dental caries
Toothache can be caused by food getting stuck in the gaps between teeth, known as food impaction pain. Dental caries pain is caused by tooth decay, which stimulates the gums and dental nerves. It is a common type of toothache.
Acupressure Points for Toothache Massage
1. Rubbing Xiaguan
Location: On the face, in the depression between the lower edge of the zygomatic bone and the lower border of the mandible.
Technique: When rubbing Xiaguan, gradually increase the pressure for about 10 minutes, and the toothache symptoms will be relieved.
2. Rubbing Chequexue
Location: On the cheek, above the lower angle of the mandible, about one finger width below the earlobe, where the muscle bulges during chewing.
Technique: Use the thumbs of both hands to apply appropriate pressure to the same side of the cheek. Press and massage for 0.5-1 minute, gradually increasing the pressure.
3. Pressing Hegu
Location: On the back of the hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones, at the midpoint of the radial side of the second metacarpal bone.
Technique: Use the thumb to press Hegu for 1 minute. It can relieve wind pathogen in the face and teeth, and is an important acupoint for treating fever, headaches, and various diseases of the head, face, and five senses.
4. Rubbing Xiangu
Location: Sit with legs hanging down or lie on your back, in the depression between the second and third metatarsal bones, near the proximal end of the second metatarsophalangeal joint.
Technique: Use the index or middle finger to slowly rub and press in a small circular motion. Stimulating Xiangu can relieve uncomfortable toothache.
Dietary Principles for Toothache Patients
1. Consume liquid food
When experiencing toothache, chewing food becomes difficult due to tooth pain. Therefore, it is suitable to eat liquid food that is rich in nutrients and contains minimal residue. This can avoid chewing on the affected area and exacerbating the pain.
2. Clear heat and remove fire
Regardless of the type of toothache, it is caused by internal heat and toxins. Therefore, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits. Properly drink green tea, chrysanthemum tea, mung bean soup, and other beverages that clear heat and detoxify. This is the best dietary adjustment method.
3. Maintain oral hygiene
Toothache indicates that there are too many bacteria in the oral cavity. Therefore, it is important to always pay attention to oral hygiene and brush your teeth in the morning and evening. Also, avoid alcohol and smoking to prevent further irritation to the body.
4. Avoid spicy and hot foods
Avoid eating spicy and stimulating foods. Try to avoid extremely cold or hot foods to prevent further irritation to the body and aggravation of the condition.
