What’s Causing Your Toothache?
If you’ve ever had an unexpected toothache, you know how devastating it can be. In a split second, your plans for the evening or weekend are ruined—and you can’t even enjoy your food without risking agony. Sometimes it’s as simple as flossing out a painful food particle that’s lodged in the gums—but most of the time, you’re going to need the assistance of an experienced dentist, such as Dr. David Eshom. Whether it’s a deep cavity or damaged crown, Dr. Eshom will perform the proper procedure to return your tooth back to normal function and comfort, so you can get back to the business of living!
Common Toothache Symptoms
Aside from overall discomfort from the affected tooth, toothache symptoms include:
- Sharp pain
- Temperature sensitivity
- Throbbing sensation
- Pain when pressure is applied (such as biting or chewing)
- Headache
If your toothache is accompanied by fever or facial swelling, you may need urgent medical assistance. These symptoms can indicate an abscess, which means a tooth infection has spread and may affect other parts of the body. Go directly to your emergency room if this happens to you.
Pesky Particles
Food often becomes trapped in the tight spaces between two teeth, resulting in irritating discomfort. If you find yourself in this position, you can swish water between your teeth, however Dr. Eshom recommends brushing and flossing in an attempt to dislodge the trapped particle. If the particle remains intact, call our dental office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Eshom. Do not try and remove the item with anything other than dental floss. Doing so could severely harm your teeth and gums.
At your appointment, we will use specialized dental tools to carefully remove the particle, restoring comfort and function. If you’re unsure how to properly floss, Dr. Eshom can provide a hands-on demonstration so that you get the most out of your daily oral hygiene routine.
The Common Cavity
Most patients, both children and adults, will have at least one cavity in their lifetime. When acid from sugary foods and drinks isn’t properly removed from teeth, tooth enamel begins to erode. A small hole (or cavity) is formed in the tooth and can lead to great deals of discomfort. Children often enjoy sugary beverages and sweet foods, which makes them highly susceptible to cavities; therefore Dr. Eshom stresses the importance of limiting sugary substances. If your child indulges in these foods and drinks, simply have him or her brush immediately after. This is a good rule of thumb for patients of all ages in order to promote a healthy mouth.
Dr. Eshom corrects cavities with dental fillings. In this dental procedure, he uses a composite resin to fill the hole in the enamel created by acidic excretions. In the case that the cavity is too large for a filling, he will use an all porcelain crown. During this procedure, a custom-made crown is permanently bonded over the damaged tooth. The restorative device protects the tooth from further bacteria exposure and restores proper function. Once the tooth is protected, you will not experience discomfort when pressure is applied to the tooth, such as when you’re eating.
Patients appreciate the porcelain material that we use because it’s tooth colored and appears natural. Your repaired tooth will blend beautifully with your remaining teeth. If you properly care for your dental crown, it’s expected to last 20 years or more.
Periodontal Health
A symptom of gum disease is toothaches, and in severe cases tooth loss. Many patients develop gum disease due to lack of proper oral health. Research shows that one in every two American adults has or will develop a form of periodontal disease. This condition has three different stages: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. It’s during the lesser stage that patients often experience toothaches.
Periodontitis can cause gum recession, which can lead to dental pain. Dr. Eshom performs laser dentistry to deal with negative gum disease symptoms. Although this disease is incurable, symptoms can be managed with routine treatment. Once the disease advances to the final stage, tooth and bone loss are generally present and you will require oral surgery.
Dr. Eshom uses specialized lasers to remove harmful bacteria from soft tissues in the gums. You can expect a healthier, more attractive smile after receiving this procedure.
It’s imperative that you schedule an appointment with Dr. Eshom if you begin to notice gum disease symptoms. Along with a toothache, such symptoms include:
- Red, swollen gums
- Frequent gum bleeding
- Halitosis (bad breath)
Gum disease has been linked with stroke, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, low birth weight or premature birth in pregnant women. An appointment with Dr. Eshom is the only way to manage the negative effects of this undesirable oral condition.
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