Toothache can be caused by a number of issues, including decay, infection and cracks.
If you are suffering from toothache, there are a number of factors that could be contributing to your discomfort. Although toothaches vary in severity depending on the location and cause of the pain, some of the most common symptoms of the issue include discomfort in and near the affected tooth — this pain can feel sharp, dull or constant; swelling around the affected tooth; headache; fever; and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Read on to find out what causes toothache, and what you can do to prevent or resolve the issue…
What are the possible causes?
Pain in or around a tooth is often caused by tooth decay or a dental abscess. Other possible causes include a cracked tooth; a damaged filling; or an infection of the gums. Habits such as tooth grinding can also cause pain in the teeth, especially if the teeth are being worn away and damaged by the repetitive motion.
When should you see a dentist?
It is important that you see your dentist as soon as possible if you are suffering from toothache. Make an appointment if you are struggling with severe pain, especially if it has lasted for more than a day or two. You should also consult with your dentist if you have a fever or earache as a result of toothache. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of a quick recovery.
When you see your dentist, they will perform a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth and gums. They may perform dental x-rays to assist in identifying the cause of your pain.
What are the treatment options?
The treatment that your dentist recommends will depend on the cause of your toothache. If your dentist identifies a cavity, they will probably recommend a filling. In some cases, a root canal may be necessary — this procedure is performed when the pulp of the tooth is severely decayed or infected. In very severe cases, a tooth extraction may be recommended but your dentist will try to save a damaged tooth before resorting to this option.
How can toothaches be prevented?
The best way to prevent toothache is to practice proper oral hygiene. By keeping your teeth clean, it is often possible to prevent tooth decay and cavities, which are the most common causes of toothache. We recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, and that you floss daily. It is also advisable that you see your dentist for a check-up and clean every six months or so. During a professional clean, any plaque and tartar that has built up on the teeth and gum line will be removed. You might also consider fissure sealants as a preventative measure against cavities.
We also encourage our patients to eat a balanced diet high in whole foods and low in sugar — consuming too much sugar can contribute to the development of plaque and tooth decay.
How can we help?
If you are suffering from toothache, we encourage you to come in and see us as soon as possible. We offer a number of general and restorative treatments and will advise you on the course of action that suits you best.
We also urge our patients to come in and see us for regular appointments. Regular check-ups and cleans can often prevent minor issues from becoming more complicated in the future. When you come in and see us, we will provide you with any health advice that you need, and address any questions or concerns that you have regarding the condition of your teeth and gums.
If you would like to find out about the general dentistry services that we offer, please have a look here.
If you would like to arrange a consultation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us here or give us a call on (07) 3210 2144. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice in Brisbane.
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