Reasons to Visit a Dentist for a Toothache

Some people waste weeks or even longer trying to make a toothache go away on their own. Toothaches can be managed with a variety of over-the-counter painkillers and tooth pain products, but until treating the root cause, the pain will continue to reoccur.

Many who postpone having a dentist treat their toothache are not fond of dental appointments. Their dental phobias often make it easier to convince themselves that they can manage their problem themselves. Unfortunately, this typically worsens things and can lead to higher dental bills.

Benefits of visiting a dentist for toothache pain

Are you dealing with a toothache? Here are a few reasons why making a dentist trip is the best way to address the problem.

1. Improved infection management

Ignore a toothache long enough, and there is a decent chance that an infection will develop. Toothaches are usually a sign that a tooth has been damaged, making it easier for bacteria to get into areas like the pulp chamber. The pulp chamber contains the tooth's nerves and blood vessels. An infection there leads to excruciating pain, and there is always a chance of the infection spreading to other parts of the patient's body, like the brain.

If the patient's tooth already has an infection by the time they get to the clinic, the dentist can perform appropriate treatments, like a root canal or an extraction. Root canals are the more conventional approach, but the dentist may recommend an extraction if there is a serious risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the body.

2. For extraction

Wisdom teeth often cause toothaches, which are the hardest to clean due to their location at the back of the mouth. Wisdom teeth are the only teeth that are not necessary for good dental or overall health. However, given that they are more prone to developing issues, the dentist will usually recommend extracting a wisdom tooth that is causing tooth pain.

Tooth pain might also be a sign of an impacted wisdom tooth, a tooth stuck below the surface of the gums, causing pain and complications. An extraction is a common treatment for this situation as well.

3. Early diagnosis of gum disease

Gum disease is another cause of toothaches. Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is an inflammatory condition occurring when bacteria collect in the gums, leading to inflammation and irritation. The chronic condition eats away at the structures that support teeth and can lead to teeth becoming loose or falling out.

Gum disease can be reversed during its early stage (gingivitis), making early detection extremely important. Patients who go to a dentist for a toothache likely receive an examination that can lead to early detection of gum disease—saving teeth.

4. Stopping the pain in its tracks

There is no other way to stop toothaches except to diagnose the root cause and perform the appropriate treatments. Over-the-counter tooth pain products only help to mask the pain caused by the underlying issue. Typically, these products lose effectiveness over time as the patient's body gets used to them.

Visiting a dentist for tooth pain gives them a chance to examine your mouth and identify the source of the pain. The dentist conducts a visual examination and uses a probe to pinpoint the origin of the pain. The dentist may order diagnostic tests such as X-rays depending on their findings.

Some of the treatments a dentist might recommend for tooth pain include:

• Fillings: Fillings help to stop toothaches caused by minor decay or damage to a tooth. The dentist first cleans the tooth and then fills the holes with fillings. This procedure prevents acids and bacteria from getting inside the tooth and irritating it
• Composite bonding: Composite bonding is an alternative to a traditional filling to treat decayed teeth. It is the more popular option these days since it can be matched with the color of the patient's teeth. Composite bonding can also repair teeth structures
• Dental crowns: Crowns are typically recommended for severe damage or decay to a tooth. The crown covers the tooth's visible part, protecting it against irritants and bite forces. The crown also restores the tooth's function. In some cases, severely damaged teeth are first treated with root canal therapy before being covered with crowns

Get the treatments you need

Managing a toothache on your own is usually pointless because it will keep coming back. Instead, call or visit our Honolulu clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist so you can get a long-lasting solution for your toothache.

Please 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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