If you are experiencing tooth pain, your mind probably has already made the leap to tooth decay, assuming that you have a cavity. It’s true that cavities are one of the most common reasons for toothaches. However, they are far from being the only cause of dental pain. But whatever the reason for your discomfort, a toothache is never normal, and it is likely that you will need restorative treatment.
At Dental Care of Lombard, Dr. Julie Glud offers a full range of procedures for all types of toothaches. With her gentle chairside manner, she can quickly put you at ease. Then, after determining the underlying cause of your toothache, she will offer personalized care. With our advanced restorative materials and state-of-the-art technology, she can provide highly accurate diagnoses and beautifully lifelike restorations.
To receive fast and effective treatment for your tooth pain, contact Dental Care of Lombard today.
When a Toothache Does Mean Dental Decay
When bacteria, plaque, and tartar build up on your teeth, they will erode your dental enamel. As this occurs, the microbes can access the softer pulp inside your tooth, burrowing in to create a cavity. Cavities are incredibly common, affecting almost 90% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64.
Cavity-related toothaches vary significantly. Some people may experience only mild discomfort, while others may suffer from sharp pains. It’s important to note, however, that decay-related tooth pain often does not manifest itself until a cavity is quite advanced. Early-stage decay may go undiagnosed until a patient has a routine exam.
In most cases, Dr. Glud will treat a cavity by placing a filling. You can choose from tooth-colored composite or silver amalgam. The best choice will depend on the location of the cavity, your budget, and your cosmetic goals.
An Abscessed Tooth
If decay goes untreated, your tooth may become abscessed. This occurs when bacteria reach the dental root. Then a pocket of pus and bacteria can form in the gums near the root. Abscess-related discomfort is typically more severe than the pain caused by a cavity. It is usually constant, feels like stabbing pains, and may be worsened by eating cold or hot foods. You may also experience a fever or facial swelling.
To treat an abscessed tooth, your dentist will first need to drain the abscess. Then, in many cases, she can save the tooth with root canal therapy. During this procedure, she will clean all bacteria and damaged tissue from your tooth before placing a dental crown.
A Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth will often cause intermittent pain, which worsens when you are chewing or when your teeth are exposed to temperature changes. Sugar may also exacerbate your discomfort. When your tooth is cracked, the outer pieces of hard enamel will move when you are eating, causing irritation in the soft inner pulp. Without treatment, bacteria will enter the crack, and your tooth could eventually become infected.
Treatment will depend on the size and location of the crack. If only the cusp of your tooth is cracked, Dr. Glud can usually provide a dental crown. If the crack extends to your tooth root, but it does not go below the gum line, you will likely need root canal therapy. On the other hand, if the crack does reach below your gums, Dr. Glud will need to extract the tooth. Then she can provide an appropriate restoration, such as a bridge or a dental implant.
A Damaged Filling
When you first receive a filling, you may experience some dental sensitivity, which will typically subside within a few weeks. However, if you have had a filling for many years, it could loosen or crack, which could cause more pronounced dental pain. If the damaged restoration is diagnosed in time, Dr. Glud may simply be able to replace the filling. However, if bacteria have entered the area, you may have additional decay, and there may no longer be enough dental tissue for a filling. In these cases, Dr. Glud will often recommend a crown.
Periodontal Disease
Like tooth decay, gum disease is unfortunately common and affects about 42% of adults over the age of 30. The condition develops when oral bacteria spread below the gum line, creating pockets in the soft tissues. As these pockets grow larger, they can cause your gums to pull away from your tooth roots. This will expose the roots, causing significant sensitivity, particularly in response to temperature changes.
Treatment for gum disease will depend on the stage and severity of your case. If you are already experiencing pain, it is likely that you have a more advanced condition. Dr. Glud may recommend scaling and root planing, during which she will remove bacteria from your gums and smooth your tooth roots to discourage the microbes from returning. If your case is particularly severe, you may need gum surgery. We perform laser surgery, which is faster, less invasive, and has a quicker recovery time.
Dental Sensitivity
Sensitive teeth are not always caused by periodontal disease or gum recession. Often, it occurs because of damage to the tooth enamel. For instance, if you suffer from tooth grinding, it can erode the hard outer surface, exposing the more sensitive dentin below. Aggressive brushing and excessive consumption of acidic foods and beverages can also damage the enamel.
In some cases, treatment for sensitive teeth may be as simple as using an anti-sensitivity toothpaste and making a few lifestyle changes. In other instances, you may need restorative care, like bonding, sealants, or a crown. If an underlying condition, such as bruxism, is to blame, Dr. Glud will need to treat this problem. (For bruxism, a custom-mouthguard is usually recommended.)
Something Stuck between Your Teeth
It may sound overly simple, but having food stuck in your mouth can cause a dull, throbbing pain. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing your mouth with water can often dislodge the particles. If this doesn’t work, you should call your dentist. Never try to remove food with sharp objects, as this can damage your teeth and gums.
Get Appropriate Treatment for Your Tooth Pain
For timely treatment for your tooth pain, contact Dental Care of Lombard today.
Reach us online or give us a call at (630) 629-5700.
