Nothing is quite as irritating and uncomfortable as a toothache. Everything from speaking to eating can suddenly be a painful experience. But does a toothache always mean you have a cavity? If you do have decay, what can we do to treat your tooth and stop your discomfort?
Frequently Asked Questions About Toothaches and Cavities
Question: What factors can lead to a toothache?
Answer: You may develop discomfort as a result of changes in air pressure, such as when riding in a plane. Other times, a sinus infection can lead to sensitivity in your teeth. However, the most common cause of pain is simply tooth decay, which requires treatment to stop the ache and prevent further complications.
Question: What if I don’t seek treatment?
Answer: Without treatment, a cavity grows until the bacteria can finally reach the inner pulp. The pulp is a bundle of living tissue that keep the tooth alive and healthy. An infection can lead to serious discomfort, including pain when eating, fever, and swelling near the tooth. Eventually, without treatment the tooth can die and require removal.
Question: How do you stop the ache?
Answer: Often, we can place a filling. We remove the decay and then clean the tooth. We then prepare the composite resin material, color-matching it to blend with the tooth. We apply the material and as it cures under a light, the dentist sculpts and molds the tooth. Finally, we polish the tooth for a more natural appearance.
Question: How do I avoid discomfort entirely?
Answer: Try cutting back on foods and beverages high in sugar and acids. Also, be sure you’re brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing every night before going to bed. Finally, we recommend seeing the dentist every six months to have your teeth cleaned. If you have any questions about toothaches, then please contact our office today.
Do You Have an Aching Tooth?
We can uncover the cause of your aching tooth and recommend treatment, such as a lifelike dental filling! Schedule a visit with our Austin, MN practice today by contacting Potach and Mitchell Dental Clinic today at 507-437-6312 to schedule your care.
