Have you ever experienced a toothache that kept you up at night or prevented you from eating or functioning normally?
A toothache is a discomfort or pain in the teeth and gums. It can be caused by various factors and differ in severity. Though, regardless of how much or how long your teeth or gums have been hurting, it pays to see a dentist to address this pain as soon as possible.
Could Any of These Reasons Be Causing Your Toothaches?
Cavities are one of the leading causes of toothaches. Bacteria and food particles combine and form acids that eat away at the enamel. This can expose the inner layers of the teeth that are connected to the nerves and result in pain and sensitivity.
Toothache can also be due to gum disease. This happens when bacterial plaque accumulates and irritates the gums. As the infection progresses, bone loss around teeth can occur, and pockets can form where food particles and bacteria can get trapped, resulting in additional infection and discomfort.
In the case of a chipped or fractured tooth, you may experience sharp pain when pressure is applied to the area. This may require root canal therapy or even extraction if left untreated.
Is Toothache a Serious Dental Issue?
Not all toothaches are a sign of a serious dental problem. But in some cases, yes, it can be indicative of an underlying dental issue that requires urgent attention.
Delaying treatment can result in more complications, including infection, bone loss, and the need for root canal therapy or extraction.
If you're experiencing a toothache or discomfort, visiting your dentist is imperative. They'll be able to determine the cause of your toothache and administer the appropriate treatment.
Ignoring a toothache will only make it worse, so consult with your dentist immediately.
What Can Happen if Toothaches Go Untreated?
If you disregard a toothache and fail to seek treatment, its underlying causes can have severe consequences on your oral health.
Untreated cavities can reach the innermost layers of teeth and cause intense pain. Gum disease can result in further infection, discomfort, and tooth loss. A cracked or damaged tooth may require root canal therapy or even extraction. If left untreated, infection from an abscessed tooth can spread and compromise other areas of the body.
In order to prevent more serious complications, addressing any dental issue, no matter how minor it may appear, is vital.
Do Home Remedies Alleviate Toothache Pain?
Home remedies can provide temporary toothache relief, but they cannot replace professional dental care.
Until you're able to see a dentist, you may gargle with warm salt water or take an over-the-counter pain reliever. You can also apply ice packs against your cheeks to reduce swelling.
Remember that you'll still need to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to determine a long-term or permanent solution for your dental discomfort.
How Can Your Dentist in Ottawa, ON, Help?
Your dentist is the best person to help you manage toothaches and other dental problems.
Through professional dental care, the underlying cause of your discomfort can be identified, and you can receive the appropriate treatment, such as fillings, root canals, crowns, extractions, or even antibiotics to combat infection.
Your dentist will also be able to advise you on pain relief techniques and lifestyle changes that can keep future toothaches at bay. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the best course of action.
Addressing tooth pain before it worsens and turns into more serious problems is crucial. Seek long-term toothache relief and ensure that your smile remains healthy and happy for years to come.
To request a comprehensive oral examination due to toothaches in Ottawa, ON, please leave us a message at Dow’s Lake Dental. Not all toothaches go away on their own. Let’s find out what’s causing it and get you back to your regular activities.
