Types of Tooth Pain Treated by a General Dentist
Tooth pain, also known as toothache, is a common issue that causes many people to seek professional dental care. Tooth pain can affect a person's everyday life, whether they are experiencing mild discomfort or severe, debilitating pain. A general dentist can diagnose and treat a variety of tooth pain, offering relief and improving oral health.
Types of tooth pain
Dull and persistent pain
This type of tooth pain is the most common. Though it can seem scary, the cause is typically as simple as having food stuck in the teeth or gums. A quick brush and floss can solve the issue. It can also be caused by grinding one's teeth at night (bruxism), which is why a general dentist may recommend a night guard. However, if the pain persists, it may indicate a more severe issue, such as an abscessed tooth, which will need immediate professional treatment.
Tooth sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity often occurs when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. This type of tooth pain typically occurs due to enamel erosion, exposed dentin, or gum recession.
A general dentist can address tooth sensitivity by recommending fluoride treatments, desensitizing toothpaste, or protective dental sealants. In more severe cases, they may use dental bonding agents or dental fillings. These restorative procedures can help shield the affected teeth from further damage.
Throbbing pain
Throbbing tooth pain may indicate an infection, abscess, or advanced decay. This type of pain is often localized to a certain area of the mouth and can radiate to other areas of the face or jaw.
A general dentist will thoroughly examine the patient's mouth. They may also utilize tools like dental X-rays to identify the underlying cause of the pain. Treatments may include cavity fillings, root canal therapy, or antibiotics if an infection is present.
Sharp or shooting pain
Sharp, shooting pain often occurs when the patient is biting down on or chewing a piece of food. This discomfort can vary from a cracked or damaged tooth to a loose filling or a dislodged dental crown.
In order to diagnose the problem, the general dentist will use diagnostic tools like X-rays and physical examinations of the patient's mouth. Depending on the extent of the damage, the dentist may only need to repair a loose or damaged filling. However, more comprehensive solutions may include a dental crown or onlay place.
When to seek dental care
Many mild toothaches resolve on their own with the need for invasive treatment. In these cases, patients can treat the toothache by rinsing their mouth with warm water and flossing to remove any bits of food or plaque between their teeth. They can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever to dull the ache.
However, there are cases when patients need to seek professional treatment. They should call their dentist if they experience the following:
- Pain that continues for more than a couple of days
- Fever
- Symptoms of infection, such as swelling, foul-tasting discharge, and painful chewing
- Discolored or bleeding gums
These symptoms may indicate a dental emergency and require immediate intervention.
Get the relief you need from tooth pain
Tooth pain comes in many forms, each requiring specific attention and care. Seeking professional treatment from a general dentist can alleviate discomfort while protecting your long-term oral health. Call our Northridge office to schedule an appointment and get the relief you need from tooth pain.
Request an appointment here: https://818smiledental.com or call 818 Smile Dental Group at (818) 350-8152 for an appointment in our Northridge office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Related Posts
A general dentist serves as the primary point of contact for nearly every oral health need, from routine cleanings to the diagnosis of more complex issues. Deciding between a local family office and a specialist often depends on the specific situation or the complexity of the procedure. Understanding these different roles ensures that dental care…
Many people assume that only a small group qualifies for dental implants. On the contrary, a wide range of adults are eligible to replace teeth with this popular smile restoration. To start, most candidates simply need to be in good health, have a strong jawbone, and practice good oral hygiene. A dental provider looks at…
We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the Northridge, CA area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, General Dentist, Family Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Dental Implants, All-on-4 Dental Implants, All-on-X Dental Implants, Implant Supported Dentures and Dentures.
Implant supported dentures provide a secure, stable, and long-lasting alternative to traditional dentures. Unlike conventional removable dentures, these advanced prosthetic options are anchored directly to the jawbone. Implant supported dentures offer a range of benefits that extend beyond improving the appearance of the smile. Here are six major advantages of choosing implant supported dentures over…