Tooth pain can turn a day into an absolutely uncomfortable one. Eating is a problem, cold drinks are a nightmare, and the pain will invariably come back at the most inopportune moment, just when you think it’s gone.
The cause could be a cavity, a cracked tooth, gum inflammation or a problem within the tooth. The appropriate treatment will depend on what the actual cause is rather than simply how bad the pain is.
At Gentle Smile Dentocare, Dr. Apoorwa Moghe carries out dental assessments for patients in Wagholi, Pune and will go on to explain the appropriate treatment options following an assessment of the affected tooth.
What Causes Tooth Pain?
Common causes of toothache include:
- Tooth decay (a cavity): can lead to sensitivity or pain as it develops.
- Sensitive teeth: exposed dentine, enamel wear, or gum recession can all lead to sensitivity to hot and cold.
- A cracked tooth: a tooth that’s damaged may be painful when you’re biting or chewing.
- Gum problems: Inflamed gums or an infection near a tooth can cause tenderness and swelling.
- Pulp inflammation or infection: damage to the soft tissue within the tooth will often require root canal treatment.
These conditions can present in a similar way. A dental examination (sometimes with the aid of an X-ray) will help establish the cause.
When Should You See a Dentist for Tooth Pain?
If your toothache is going to last more than two days, if it keeps coming back, if it’s hurting when you bite or if it’s accompanied by swollen gums, a fever or a bad taste in the mouth, then you should arrange a dental appointment.
Swelling around the eye or neck, or difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking all require urgent medical attention. For further advice, see the NHS guidance on toothache.
Don’t wait until the pain is bad. Some dental problems require treatment even if the symptoms are quite mild.
What Can You Do Before Your Appointment?
While you’re waiting for your dental visit, try these practical steps:
- Avoid the triggers. Go for softer foods and avoid very hot, very cold or sweet foods if these in any way aggravate the pain.
- Protect the affected tooth. Don’t chew on hard foods on that side and brush very gently with a soft toothbrush.
- Ask about pain relief (a dentist or pharmacist will be able to advise you on appropriate options).
- Note your symptoms. When did the pain start? What triggers it? Is there any swelling? Any sensitivity?
These may help with the discomfort, but they won’t address the root of the problem. Never put aspirin directly on a tooth and never take any leftover antibiotics without speaking to your doctor first.
Will You Need a Filling or a Root Canal?
A toothache doesn’t necessarily mean you need a root canal.
If the pulp of the tooth hasn’t decayed extensively, then a filling may be all that’s required to restore the area that’s been damaged. For more information on dental fillings in Wagholi, please see below.
If the pulp of the tooth is damaged in an irreversible way or infected, then a root canal treatment may be indicated. The dentist will remove the affected tissue, clean and seal the canals and then arrange an appropriate restoration.
Read up on root canal treatment in Wagholi to get a better understanding of the procedure.
Your dentist will go over the findings, the options available and the likely costs before any treatment is planned.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can tooth pain just go away on its own?
Pain may well settle for a while even if the actual problem is still there. If it’s still there or comes back, then get in to see your dentist rather than just assuming the tooth has healed.
2. Why does my tooth hurt when I bite down?
Pain on biting could be due to a crack, decay, inflammation of the root or some other dental problem. Don’t keep on biting to test the tooth; get it looked at.
3. Why are my teeth suddenly sensitive to cold water?
Sensitivity can be due to enamel wear, gum recession, exposed dentine or tooth decay. If it’s persistent or getting worse, it should be looked at by a dentist.
4. How do I know if I need a root canal?
Persistent pain, ongoing temperature sensitivity, pain on chewing or swelling could all be signs of a problem with the pulp of the tooth. That said, those symptoms don’t necessarily mean a root canal is required. It’s up to the dentist to assess the tooth.
5. Is a root canal painful?
Local anaesthetic is used to manage the discomfort of the treatment, and some tenderness afterwards is possible. Please let your dentist know if you have any concerns prior to the procedure.
6. Why does my tooth still hurt after a root canal?
Some tenderness may occur after treatment. Persistent or worsening pain, swelling or discomfort when biting should be checked by your dentist.
7. Do I always need a crown after a root canal?
No. The recommended restoration depends on the tooth’s location, remaining structure and risk of fracture. Your dentist can explain whether a crown or another restoration is appropriate.
8. What is the cost of root canal treatment in Wagholi?
The cost will vary according to the tooth involved, the complexity of the treatment and whether a crown or some other form of restoration is required. Get in touch with the clinic for a cost estimate following your examination and treatment plan.
Book a Dental Consultation in Wagholi
Recurrent toothache is something that should be taken seriously even if it’s intermittent. An examination will help to establish the cause and what you need to do next.
Visit Gentle Smile Dentocare at Shop No. 12, 1st Floor, V Axis Commercial Complex, Ivy Estate, beside Reliance Smart, Wagholi, Pune 412207.
Call 074711 03210 or contact the clinic online to enquire about an appointment.