I Have a Toothache: Should I Go See the Dentist?
Toothaches can range from annoying to debilitating. Regardless of the specifics, if you’re wondering whether you should see a dentist, the answer is always yes. When you visit our Bloomington, IL, dental office, we can discuss your concerns and examine your smile to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort. Until then, let’s cover some reasons why toothaches call for a visit to the dentist.
How Do You Define a Toothache?
Before we discuss causes, let’s first pause to consider what a toothache actually means. Every person’s experience is unique but we generally hear these descriptions:
- Constant pain in the jaw or face
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Shooting pain when you bite down
Keep in mind that dental problems can have far-reaching effects. If you’re hesitant to think a dentist can help, think again. We’re often able to make connections between symptoms that don’t seem to be related. When in doubt, reach out to us.
Causes of Toothaches
Next, let’s cover some causes of these issues.
Cavity
Left untreated, harmful bacteria can accumulate on our teeth and create tiny holes in the enamel–the protective outer layer of a tooth. You might notice greater discomfort when you eat sugary treats or enjoy acidic foods and drinks.
Root Canal Infection
If this bacteria enters the inner portion of the tooth, it can create a root canal infection. Since the nerve is located within this soft tissue, a toothache will usually become more pronounced at this stage.
Teeth Grinding
Clenching and grinding–two hallmark symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder–can place a huge amount of stress on your teeth and create a range of painful symptoms.
Gum Recession
TMJ disorder and gum disease can both cause the gumline to recede. Once the tooth roots become exposed, it can cause sensitivity and discomfort.
Prompt Action Could Save Your Tooth
What do all of these toothache causes have in common? Without treatment, they’ll most often escalate. With the exception of teeth grinding, which can sometimes improve with stress reduction and other lifestyle changes, you’re going to need a dentist’s help to protect your smile.
When you visit our Bloomington office, we’ll evaluate your medical history and discuss your concerns. We’ll also take x-rays to gain a more comprehensive understanding of your oral health. Once we pinpoint the cause, we can discuss your treatment options.
Common Treatments for Toothaches
Depending on your unique case, we might recommend:
- Dental filling
- Root canal treatment and a dental crown
- Treatment for TMJ disorder
- Periodontal treatment
- Gum grafting
If you don’t regularly visit the dentist, we’ll also make sure to get you set up with periodic check-ups. In addition to practicing good oral hygiene at home, visiting us at least every six months for cleanings and exams is the simplest way to keep your smile in top shape.
Schedule an Appointment With Us
Our practice has been operating out of the same Bloomington location for more than 100 years. We’re proud to consider ourselves a fixture in the community and feel it is a true privilege to treat generations of patients. When you reach out to us, you can trust your smile is in good hands. Message us today to request an appointment and find relief from your toothache.