What to do if you're experiencing tooth pain
Tooth pain is a universal experience that we've all had to deal with at some point. One moment you're enjoying a bowl of ice cream or biting into your favorite sweet candy and then suddenly you're stopped cold by excruciating tooth pain. While the occasional toothache isn't something to be alarmed about, it's important to know what causes tooth pain, when to seek help from an endodontist and how to manage the pain in the meantime. In some cases, tooth pain can require the help of an endodontist like your favorite endodontists at West Fort Worth Endodontics.
What causes tooth pain?
Tooth pain can manifest in different ways and can stem from various reasons. Some common causes include:
Tooth decay
Gum disease
Tooth fracture or chip
Tooth abscess or infection
Damaged filling
Teeth grinding (bruxism)
Jaw joint disorders (TMJ)
Sinus infection (may cause referred tooth pain)
Tooth pain is not restricted to these common causes. Pregnancy, tooth pain after dental cleaning, and tooth pain when eating sweets are also possible causes.
How can an endodontist help with tooth pain?
Endodontists are dental specialists who are experts in diagnosing tooth pain and providing root canal treatments to save the affected tooth. If you're experiencing severe tooth pain, a visit to the endodontist might be the key to finding relief and preventing potential tooth loss. Here's how an endodontist can help:
Diagnosis: An endodontist will perform a thorough examination, including X-rays and other imaging, to determine the source of your tooth pain.
Root Canal Treatment: If the tooth's pulpal tissue (nerve tissue and blood vessels inside the tooth) is damaged or infected, the endodontist will perform a root canal treatment to remove the infected tissue and relieve the pain.
Follow-up: Your endodontist will monitor your tooth pain to ensure a successful recovery and address any post-treatment concerns you might have.
Managing tooth pain at home before your appointment
Although it's important to consult a dental professional to properly diagnose and treat tooth pain, there are many ways you can find relief while waiting for your appointment. Some helpful methods include:
Ice or cold packs applied to the affected area to help numb the pain and reduce inflammation.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
It's important to remember that relief from tooth pain should not be mistaken for resolution of the underlying cause. Always consult a dental professional if you're experiencing tooth pain, especially if it is persistent or accompanied by swelling, fever, or other concerning symptoms.
In conclusion, tooth pain is a common issue with various causes. By understanding what causes tooth pain and seeking appropriate dental care, you can take control of your toothache and restore your oral health. Remember to stay vigilant about your dental health, maintain good oral hygiene habits, and consult your dentist or endodontist for the best course of action in beating tooth pain.
Make an appointment with WFW Endodontics
If you've been experiencing tooth pain for two or more days, contact us at WFW Endodontics. Our board-certified endodontists, Dr. Nieves and Dr. Fitzhugh, are experts at pain diagnosis and can guide you on the proper treatment for your tooth pain.