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Toothaches are a common oral health issue. In most cases, they're not serious. However, they can be a sign of more severe dental problems, especially when they’re more frequent and intense. Here’s some important information about toothaches and how a dentist can help.

What You Should Know About Tooth Pain

What Causes It?

dentistTooth pain occurs when bacteria, temperatures, or environmental factors stimulate exposed nerves. It can range from deep exposure in a large fracture to light exposure on areas of dentin, the layer beneath the protective enamel coating on each tooth.

Many cases of tooth pain are related to sensitivity. When enamel erodes from poor dental care, teeth grinding, overbrushing, or is inherited, hot and cold temperatures can create pain. It may be temporary or chronic and mostly occurs when biting down on these foods or drinks.

Decay can cause various levels of pain. When bacteria break down enamel and begin destroying the interior of your tooth, inflammation, swelling, and discomfort will follow. It can begin as a cavity and progress to a root canal infection, which can create constant, excruciating pain. Infections from gum disease will also increase the frequency and severity of tooth pain.

Patients may also experience regular pain when a tooth is chipped or fractured and the nerve is exposed. There are several types, including fractured biting surfaces, small breaks in the enamel, or larger portions of the tooth being chipped off.

How to Handle Tooth Pain

Regardless of the extent of the pain or how often it occurs, you should always alert your dentist. They’ll offer a number of treatment options based on your needs. Sensitivity can usually be resolved with a numbing and remineralizing toothpaste that will reduce pain and increase enamel strength. Decay will need to be managed with dental sealants, fillings, or root canal therapy. A dentist will recommend antibiotics and scaling and planing procedures to resolve gum disease, and they can seal or bond fractures and chips.

To prevent tooth pain, make sure to brush, floss, and rinse at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush so that you don’t wear down your enamel, and schedule two trips to the dentist each year for a professional cleaning. Aim to eat a healthy diet low in sugary and acidic foods, and always wear a mouthguard during contact sports to prevent breaks.

 

If you’re overdue for a trip to the dentist, contact Comfort Family Dentistry, PLLC in Cohoes, NY. This practice is led by Dr. Thomas M. Patregnani, who has 35 years of experience and offers both general and cosmetic dentistry services. Connect online to learn more about the practice or call (518) 235-3862 to schedule a dental cleaning.

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