Experiencing toothache is never going to be fun. But rest assured that whatever the cause, your dentist is there to help you.
In this post, we’re going to look at three reasons for a toothache and how your dentist can help you with each one.
1. Tooth decay
Tooth decay is one of the most common reasons for a toothache.
In its early stages, tooth decay can make you feel sensitive to cold or sweet foods and drinks.
Once it progresses, you may experience sensitivity to hot items too. And if the decay reaches the nerves inside your teeth, then you will be vulnerable to toothache and infection.
Don’t delay going to see your dentist as soon as you notice any of these signs. The earlier your tooth decay is treated, the better. The dentist will take a look at the affected tooth and your entire mouth and offer the most suitable treatment.
If the decay has not progressed too far, then a filling should do the job. If the decay has set deep into your tooth, then you may require a more involved treatment like root canal work.
2. Wisdom teeth
Your wisdom teeth are the third set of molars, located right at the back of your mouth. They usually break through your gums when you are around 17 to 25 years of age.
Sometimes they can be impacted. This means that they don’t succeed in breaking through the gums, which can be a painful experience.
An impacted wisdom tooth can also damage surrounding teeth and lead to infection, cavities and a build-up of the bacteria that can cause gum disease. That’s why it’s so important to see your dentist if you are suffering from wisdom teeth pain.
Dentists often recommend wisdom teeth removal and can advise on pain relief in the meantime.
3. Cracked teeth
If your tooth is cracked because of an accident, decay, grinding your teeth or from biting on hard food, then you are likely to suffer pain. You may also suffer from sensitivity if the enamel breaks away to expose the inner layer of dentine.
See your dentist as soon as possible if you have a crack in your tooth. Depending on the type and severity of the crack, they will be able to offer you some different options.
For a minor crack, they may offer bonding, which uses resin to fill the crack and restore its appearance and function.
For deeper cracks, your dentist may suggest a crown. This is a cap that fits over your existing tooth to protect it and looks completely natural. It may take a couple of appointments to fix but is a long-lasting and effective solution.
Other treatments include root canal work to remove damaged pulp and prevent infection and further damage, and extracting the tooth if it’s severely damaged.
Emergency dental treatment and more
If you’re suffering from dental pain, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible so they can identify the reasons for the toothache.
From there, they can suggest an effective solution to stop the pain and take care of your affected tooth.
Be sure to give us a call here at Opal Dental if you have tooth pain. We offer emergency dental treatment when you need immediate attention as well as a full range of dental care services.
Your dental health is our priority, so instead of suffering, pick up the phone to connect with your local caring and compassionate dentist for the West Auckland area.
