Toothache is a common symptom in daily life. Many people choose to endure the pain or take some anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve it. Have you ever thought about using acupressure to alleviate toothache? In this article, I will introduce the traditional Chinese medicine massage method for relieving toothache.
Causes of Toothache
1. Acute pulpitis
This condition is common in patients with deep cavities. Bacteria enter the pulp cavity through the cavities, causing congestion and inflammation of the dental nerve. Toothache is usually spontaneous, with increased pain at night and intensified pain after exposure to cold or hot stimuli. The pain can also radiate to the face, temples, and ears.
2. Acute periodontitis
The nature of toothache is similar to that of acute apical periodontitis. The affected tooth not only experiences pain during chewing and feels loose, but also has periodontal pockets and gum swelling, pain, and bleeding.
3. Dentin hypersensitivity
This condition is often caused by gum recession, exposure of dentin at the neck of the tooth, and tooth defects. Cold, heat, sweetness, and acidity can all cause pain, but the pain disappears when the stimulus stops. This is also a common cause of toothache in adults.
4. Food impaction and dental caries
Food impaction between teeth can cause toothache, known as food impaction pain. Toothache from dental caries is caused by the stimulation of the gums and dental nerves due to tooth decay, which is a common type of pain.
Acupressure Points for Toothache
1. Rubbing Xiaguan (ST 7)
Location: On the face, in the depression between the lower edge of the zygomatic bone and the lower jaw notch.
Technique: When rubbing Xiaguan, gradually increase the pressure for about 10 minutes to reduce toothache symptoms.
2. Rubbing Cheek Car (ST 6)
Location: On the cheek, above and in front of the mandibular angle, about one finger's width below the earlobe, in the depression that appears when the muscles are contracted during chewing.
Technique: Use the thumb pads of both hands to press and rub the Cheek Car acupoint on the same side, gradually increasing the pressure for 0.5-1 minute.
3. Pressing Hegu (LI 4)
Location: On the back of the hand, between the first and second metacarpal bones, at the midpoint on the radial side of the second metacarpal bone.
Technique: Press Hegu with the thumb for 1 minute to relieve wind-evil in the face and teeth. It is an important acupoint for treating fevers, facial disorders, and various diseases of the head and face.
4. Rubbing Xiangu (KI 1)
Location: Sit down with your feet hanging or lie on your back. The acupoint is located between the second and third metatarsal bones, in the depression near the proximal end of the second metatarsophalangeal joint.
Technique: Use the index or middle finger to slowly rub and press the acupoint in small circular motions. Stimulating Xiangu can relieve uncomfortable toothaches.
Diet Principles for Toothache Patients
1. Eat liquid food
When experiencing toothache, it is difficult to chew food due to tooth pain. Therefore, it is recommended to consume liquid food that is rich in nutrients and low in residue. This can avoid exacerbating the pain by chewing on the affected area.
2. Clear heat and detoxify
Regardless of the type of toothache, it is caused by internal heat and toxins. Therefore, it is beneficial to eat fresh vegetables and fruits and drink clear heat and detoxifying teas such as green tea, chrysanthemum tea, and mung bean soup.
3. Maintain oral hygiene
Toothache occurs when there are too many bacteria in the mouth, so it is important to always pay attention to oral hygiene and brush your teeth in the morning and evening. It is also important to quit alcohol and smoking to avoid further irritation to the body.
4. Avoid spicy and hot foods
It is necessary to avoid eating spicy and irritating foods, as well as excessively cold or hot foods, to prevent further irritation and worsen the condition.
