When to See a Dentist for a Toothache

A toothache can be mild, moderate, or severe. Persistent discomfort or pain in the mouth is the first sign that there is an infection, cavity, or injury in the affected tooth. This is when you must see your general dentist right away. Here are the details about seeing a dental care professional about a toothache.

Troubling tooth pain

Constant pain in the mouth is the first warning sign that one needs to see a dentist. This could indicate an infection or cavity. It could also mean that a tooth has an injury. Many dentists can see patients on the same day or for emergency cases. Pain is the most common reason for doing so.

Tooth pain as a warning

A toothache may be a strong warning of specific issues. Allergy or sinus problems can cause sensitivity. There could also be discomfort when there are elevation changes. The toothache may be temporary, lasting for about three hours. It may also last for at least two days and will only worsen over time. To be sure, the patient must see a dentist as soon as possible.

The enamel weakens when an individual is on a high-carbohydrate diet. Improper oral care can worsen the situation by allowing plaque to build up and cause cavities. The decay can go deeper into the tooth and reach the pulp, where the blood vessels and nerves stay. The dentist will examine the extent of the damage or infection. Keeping the tooth intact is possible through procedures like a root canal.

Possible infection and decay

Infection, discomfort, and tooth decay may weaken the dental structure. This makes the tooth vulnerable to chipping and fractures. The pulp may die if the tooth suffers from severe infection. The dentist may suggest a tooth extraction. This procedure can prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth. It may also keep the infection from reaching the jawbone.

Dental causes of a toothache

Dental pain can result from dental causes. The general dentist can perform a complete assessment of the patient’s mouth. This can determine what dental problems are causing the toothache. Here are some of them:

• Tooth decay can take over the tooth right away. Cavities are not painful in the beginning. When they progress, the decay can cause pulp infection. An abscess can develop, and this condition can be extremely painful.
• Malocclusion is a condition in which the patient has an uneven bite. The toothache can spread to the jaw.
• Damaged teeth due to decay or injuries can cause severe pain when left untreated.
• Periodontal disease is a severe gum infection that can cause swelling and pain.

Non-dental causes of a toothache

Seeing the attending physician first can target the root cause of the discomfort. Tooth pain may be happening because of other health conditions. The pain in the tooth may be an extension of the pain in other parts of the body. It may also occur because of infections or complications. Here are some non-dental causes of tooth pain:

• Studies show that a lack of vitamin B12 can result in toothache.
• Muscle pain around the cranium or jaw is common when the individual overuses them.
• Cluster headaches have been associated with tooth pain.
• Research reveals that nerve conditions like trigeminal neuralgia can happen with persistent and sharp discomfort in the tooth.
• Sinus infections can cause toothache as well. The sinuses at the back of the mouth can fill with water during an infection. Pressure from the water can lead to tooth pain.

Types of toothache

Studies show that pain is a strong indicator of an occurring problem. Pain in the mouth happens in different ways. The level of toothache depends on the root cause of the problem. That is why it is important to see the dentist right away.

Pain when biting happens when there is a deep problem within the tooth or there is a dental fracture. It can also result from a loose dental filling. Temperature sensitivity happens for a short period. But if it lasts for more than a minute, the individual may have a dental pulp problem.

A dull toothache can happen because of teeth grinding and jaw clenching. This condition is called bruxism. The pressure from this grinding motion can lead to toothache and jaw soreness. Painful and puffy gums result from pressure from an abscessed tooth. The infection from the tooth has already spread to the surrounding tissues of the mouth.

Your dentist can help with your toothache to restore your dental health

Ending tooth pain is a priority. You do not need to wait for days to seek a solution. An immediate appointment with your dentist can lead to the relief of your toothache. Working with your dental care provider can make you understand the solutions to your pain.

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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