Tooth pain is often caused by cavities, which are small holes where decay is taking place. Cavities start small, but they can become large enough to lead to a tooth falling apart. Most people in the U.S. have cavities that they are not aware of. These holes typically do not lead to pain in their early growth, making it hard to detect them.
A cavity expanding often leads to symptoms like the following.
Increased tooth sensitivity: This is caused by the loss of enamel that occurs as decay takes place. Enamel protects the inner layer of a tooth called the dentin. The dentist contains tiny nerve endings that are irritated when food particles or beverages make contact with them.
Intense pain: This often happens when a cavity breaches a tooth's pulp chamber. It leaves the nerves and blood vessels there exposed to bacteria and irritants in the mouth, leading to tooth pain. It also leaves the tooth exposed to infection, which causes even more intense pain.
Occasional toothaches: These might occur during the early stages of a cavity's development. It typically goes away when over-the-counter painkillers are used. Take it as a sign that it is time to see a dentist.
Discolored teeth: Tooth decay can lead to a tooth becoming discolored. Such teeth become dark grey or brown and cannot be whitened with professional teeth whitening. Dentists can cover up stains caused by tooth decay with restorations like dental crowns or composite resin.
Cavities are created by bacteria that live in the mouth. These bacteria survive on the sugars in foods, so those who consume a sugary diet are more susceptible to tooth decay. People who do not practice good oral hygiene or see a dentist regularly also have a higher risk of developing tooth decay.
Oral bacteria excrete acids after their meals and these acids break down enamel. Enamel is the strongest part of the body and can withstand this onslaught when it is properly cleaned daily and gets all the fluoride that it needs.
When a person's teeth are overexposed to acids due to poor dental hygiene or too many sugary meals, cavities start forming on their teeth. These cavities will lead to toothaches as they expand.
Dentists have a few ways that they repair teeth that have been damaged by decay. These include the following.
Fillings: These are the go-to approach to treating cavities. The dentist removes decayed material from the tooth and fills up the cavity with the filling.
Crowns: Crowns are used to cover up teeth that have been badly damaged by decay. The crown can prevent what is left of the tooth from breaking apart and restore its appearance.
Root canals: Root canals are reserved for severe tooth decay that has left the pulp chamber compromised.
Call or visit our Honolulu clinic if a decayed tooth is causing you pain. Our dentist can identify the root cause of your pain and recommend appropriate treatments.
Request an appointment here: https://www.diamondheaddentalcare.com or call Diamond Head Dental Care at (808) 450-2101 for an appointment in our Honolulu office.
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