Imagine this: as you go through your morning routine, you make a mental checklist of the things you need to do today. The first item on the agenda is brewing your first cup of coffee. After grabbing your favorite mug and leaning in to take your first sip, you feel your shoulders relax and smell the delicious aroma filling your home. The start of your day is nearly picturesque, until you feel a surge of pain stemming from your problem tooth. Mental note: add a dental appointment to the checklist.
If this scenario sounds all too familiar, then it is time to schedule a visit to your dentist’s office. Read on for three types of tooth pain that shouldn’t be ignored and why you should schedule an emergency appointment as soon as possible.
#1. Sharp, Stabbing Pain
Toothaches can occur at the most inconvenient times, but it is important not to dismiss them. After all, the nerves in your teeth are designed to experience pain to communicate that something is wrong. If you begin to feel a sharp, stabbing pain, it could be an indicator that you have a cavity or infection in your mouth. If left untreated, the condition of your teeth and gums can worsen, leading to gum disease or tooth loss. To prevent this from happening to you, call your dentist when the first symptoms arise, as the issue will not improve on its own.
Wondering how your dentist can help? The go-to treatment for an infected tooth is a root canal, and despite its reputation, it’s highly effective at relieving pain since it’s designed to remove the source of your discomfort: the infection in your tooth!
#2. Frequent Sensitivity
If you can no longer enjoy your morning cup of coffee or your late-night ice cream runs because the extreme temperatures bother your teeth, then it is time to visit your dentist. While some patients are prone to tooth sensitivity, for many this experience is a consequence of teeth clenching or grinding. It could also be a result of eroded tooth enamel, tooth decay, or cavities. To ensure that the damage doesn’t spread, schedule an appointment with your dental team.
There are many options for treating sensitive teeth, but it does depend on the cause. For example, sometimes desensitizing toothpastes can provide immense relief, while in other circumstances, teeth that have been worn down due to grinding might need to be restored with something like a filling or a dental crown.
#3. Consistent Discomfort
After a dental procedure, it is natural to experience some discomfort as your teeth and gums heal and adjust. However, consistent discomfort stemming from your mouth could indicate that your teeth are shifting, your wisdom teeth are impacted, or you have tooth decay. Fortunately, your dentist can help diagnose and treat each of these issues quickly if you contact them when you first experience the discomfort.
Luckily, there are also many at-home remedies you can rely on until you’re able to make your way to the dentist’s office. Cold compresses can often address swelling or general discomfort, warm saltwater rinses can help, and over-the-counter pain relievers can be used as directed.
For patients with a jam-packed schedule or fear of going to the dentist, ignoring a toothache might seem fine. However, it is important to remember that your dental team can provide you with the long-lasting pain relief you need before the issue spreads. So, make sure to schedule an appointment when you first notice the pain!
About the Author
Since completing his doctorate at the notable New York University, Dr. Dhavalkumar Rana has used his several years of hands-on experience and passion for dentistry to provide high-quality care to his local community. When he isn’t caring for his patients, Dr. Rana takes continuing education courses to stay up to date on the latest technology and techniques. He is also a member of multiple reputable organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. If you are seeking treatment for your tooth pain, then visit his website or give him a call at 469-202-9624.