If you’ve ever experienced a toothache, you know it’s not fun. When the pain subsides, you’ll be forgiven for celebrating, as it can be a relief for your body and your spirit.
However, it’s not time to toast to your toothache’s demise; it’s time to see a dentist. But why should you go see the dentist when the pain is gone? Doesn’t that mean the emergency has passed? Not exactly. Continue reading to find out why your mouth may be simply playing possum with disaster.
What is a Toothache?
Some tooth pain may come from sensitivity to heat and cold, like accidentally biting into ice cream or letting hot coffee splash your pearly whites before it’s cooled. This sensation overstimulates the nerves in your teeth, causing discomfort.
More severe pain is often caused by tooth decay. Your teeth consist of three layers: hard enamel on the outside, a softer dentin underneath, and the nerve center—known as pulp—in the middle, which extends to the roots embedded in your jawbone.
When your teeth decay, it starts on the surface, eating into the enamel. As it progresses into the pulp, your brain sends a warning signal to your pain receptors, causing a toothache.
Why Does the Pain Go Away?
Pain caused by decay may eventually subside when the affliction spreads further into the pulp, destroying the nerves entirely. Without nerves to warn your brain of danger, the decay can spread with impunity, working its way deeper into your tooth.
Its next stop will be the roots, the parts of your teeth that are held in your jawbone via a special tissue called the periodontal ligament. The decay will continue to spread into this tissue and eventually into your jawbone, causing more pain.
This is why it’s important to see a dentist if your tooth pain subsides. The alarm has been deactivated, and the intruder is sneaking straight to the vault.
What Will My Dentist Do About It?
Depending on how far the decay has spread, your dentist has different options for dealing with the problem.
If the tooth is salvageable, they may simply perform a root canal treatment. This involves making a small hole in your tooth to access the pulp chamber and then using specialized instruments to clean it. The dentist will then fill it with a special material before capping it with a crown to prevent further damage.
If the decay has progressed too far and is in danger of spreading deeper into the jaw, your dentist may recommend an extraction. This will remove the afflicted tooth and prevent further damage to the surrounding areas in your mouth.
It’s important to remember that persistent toothaches should never be ignored. If you suspect you may have hidden decay causing your pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for a thorough examination and timely treatment.
About the Practice
At Smile More Dentistry in Tappan, a team of highly skilled and educated professionals are standing by to help you get the care you need with the attention you deserve. Their goal is to provide a place where local families can get individualized treatment in a warm and friendly environment. If you require emergency dentistry, visit the website here or call (845) 675-1512.