Fix Tooth Pain & Toothache
Occasional tooth sensitivity is pretty normal and typically goes away on its own however, if you are experiencing persistent dull and throbbing aches or sharp pain, you may have an infected tooth. Other signs of an infected tooth include swelling or redness in the area, about taste in your mouth, bad breath, or pain when eating. A toothache can also be an underlying symptom of something else so if you are experiencing a persistent toothache, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation and x-ray.
Why might I have a toothache and how can it be fixed?
There are a number of reasons you may be experiencing a toothache and each has a solution. Below, we will review some reasons you might have a toothache and how they are treated.
Tooth Decay: It is possible to have decay in a tooth without pain, this is why annual x-rays are so important. Even if you are not experiencing any pain, decay does not resolve itself and will only get worse over time which will cost more to repair. A small amount of decay can usually be quickly fixed with a simple filling. If decay is a left untreated, you may end up requiring a root canal and/or a crown.
Periodontal Disease: A patient may develop periodontal disease for a number of reasons aside from poor oral hygiene. A patient may be genetically predisposed to periodontal disease or may be on certain prescription medications with a side effect of periodontal disease. It is also common for pregnant women to develop gestational gingivitis which usually clears up after birth. Periodontal disease can lead to tooth sensitivity, gum recession, root sensitivity, bone loss, and even tooth loss.
To treat periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning, called a scaling and root planing. Your dental hygienist will administer a local anesthetic so that you are comfortable during treatment. When you are numb, your hygienist is able to reach well below the gum line to remove plaque and bacteria buildup. Once your gums have healed, your hygienist will want to see you more often than twice a year, usually 3 to 4 times a year for periodontal maintenance.
Tooth Abscess: An abscess can develop when a fracture or decay is left untreated. Bacteria is able to enter the tooth and cause an infection in the pulp, eventually killing the pulp of the tooth and creating a pocket of pus under the gum. Your dentist will treat the abscess by draining the area and prescribing antibiotics to get rid of the infection.
Bruxism (Clenching & Grinding): Bruxism most often occurs in patients while they sleep so they don’t even realize they’re doing it. Bruxism can cause tooth sensitivity, gum recession, chipped or fractured teeth, and discomfort in the jaw. A night guard is a great way to help relieve tension in the jar and teeth while you sleep. A night guard is a plastic tray that fits over your upper teeth and acts as a buffer between the teeth to prevent damage.
Tooth Fracture: In the event that you fracture a tooth, you will likely feel a significant amount of pain when eating. It is important to see your dentist as soon as possible to have the tooth repaired and avoid further damage. A fracture is repaired with either a filling or a crown.
Damaged Dental Restorations: Dental restorations are not immune to damage. Over time, restorations can become worn or fractured or can even come out. Restorations often come out when the tooth underneath develops decay. Your dentist will remove the damaged restoration, remove any decay, and place a new restoration.