Hello? My tooth HURTS! Help me!

Oftentimes a patient will call, complain of a toothache, and want everything fixed as soon as they get here. We feel your pain! Unfortunately, it is impossible to know what is causing your pain without a bit of investigating that usually can't be done over the phone. We want to find out what is going on as much as you do, but sometimes we can’t fix you up on the day you come in–especially when booked on an emergency basis.

We promise to get you out of pain as quickly as we can!

What causes a toothache?

There are multiple things that cause a toothache. Cold sensitivity related to whitening treatments, a deep cavity, or gum recession and disease can all result in pain.

Dull, throbbing pain, sharp nerve pain–pain is pain, and we know how important it is to fix it as soon as possible. Often toothaches can be caused by medical issues completely unrelated to your teeth. Sinus infection, ear aches, TMJ dysfunction, or even heart problems can all result in tooth pain. Finding out the source of the pain is key to finding a solution!

Sensitivity

This is one of the most common, and most frustrating reasons for tooth pain.  Enamel (the outer layer of your tooth) only covers the crown of your tooth, or the part above the gums. If your gums have receded at all, the next layer of tooth becomes exposed, right along the gum line. This part of the tooth doesn’t have the enamel to shield the nerves the way the crown of the tooth does. Some other things that can lead to tooth sensitivity exposure to acidic or sugary foods, or bleaching.

Basic treatment options include dental hygiene treatment, in-office desensitization treatment, or the use of a desensitizing toothpaste. Some things you can do at home are limit your exposure to acidic food and drinks, maintain good oral hygiene, and drink lots of water.

Click the link at the bottom to read an article published in Dental Health Alberta to find some great tips about reducing acid wear on your teeth!

Cavities

In simple terms, a cavity is a hole. Dental caries (cavities) are caused by tooth decay, resulting in the breakdown of the tooth. There are many stages in the formation of this hole, and depending on the location and size of the hole, many different things can happen. If the cavity is large enough, or an area closer to a nerve, it can lead to excruciating pain. The dentist cleans out any decay and debris from the hole, and fills it with a special material so you can chew properly, and to protect your tooth from further decay, pain, and even tooth loss.

In order to know what will be needed for this filling, and the best material to use for the filling, the dentist needs to do an examination, and often a radiograph (x-ray) of the area to see the depth, extent, and location of the hole. Occasionally a cavity will go so deep it reaches the nerve located in the middle of your tooth. Usually this results in the need for root canal therapy, or sometimes even a tooth extraction.

Whatever the reason for your toothache, we want to help get to the root of the problem! We promise we will do our best to give treatment options based on your individual needs, whatever they may be.

As always, your health, comfort, and dignity is our prime concern. We are here for you, and let's get rid of that toothache!

https://www.dentalhealthalberta.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/dietary-habits-erosive-tooth.pdf