Categories: General Dentist

What a General Dentist Does for a Toothache

A general dentist can relieve a toothache after a proper assessment. This type of dental problem is often accompanied by swelling. It may even occur with a migraine, fever, or earache. Tooth pain needs immediate treatment. Here are the details on what a general dentist can do for a toothache.

A thorough dental exam

Each toothache is different. That is why the general dentist will treat each one based on its main cause. Some aches result from minor irritation. Others involve nerve issues.

The dentist will first do a physical dental exam to assess the tooth. Ordering dental X-rays will help determine if there are any hidden causes to consider. Asking the patient about any current medical condition or medication can help form a diagnosis. Only then will the general dentist begin the treatment.

Dental filling

The general dentist will drill away the decayed tooth if there is already some cavity formation. Placing dental fillings in the holes will follow. A curing light will harden the fillings and keep them in place. Shaping and polishing the fillings will follow. This will ensure a comfortable bite. It will also help the fillings blend well with the dental structure.

Fluoride treatment

Holes or cavities develop when tooth decay worsens. Trapped food particles in the holes cause pain. Fluoride treatment from a general dentist can reverse the damage that results from tooth decay in its early stages. This natural element can repair the enamel. It can even protect the teeth by making them more cavity-resistant.

Tooth extraction

Severe tooth decay or damage can reach the deepest parts of the tooth. The general dentist will assess the tooth if the damage or infection has gone beyond the gumline. Repairs may not be enough anymore. Removing the tooth will help stop the spread of infection and the pain. Discussing possible tooth replacement types can help the patient decide which one will suit the individual the most.

Root canal

The goal of this treatment is to keep the dental structure intact. Removing the infected or damaged pulp will follow after making an opening in the tooth. Cleaning, disinfecting, and drying the pulp chamber will come next. The general dentist will fill the chamber with gutta-percha, which will stabilize the tooth. Placing a custom dental crown over the treated tooth will protect and strengthen it.

Preventing a toothache

This condition can happen to anyone at any given time. Dental damage causes pain, which differs in severity. Stopping the pain is a priority. Dismissing it will allow the damage to worsen. The ideal way to prevent dental damage is to care for one’s teeth. Below are some tips on how to keep toothaches at bay:

  • Drink more water to buffer the bacterial acids in the mouth. Take in non-acidic foods as well.
  • Floss every day to get rid of the plaque and food particles between teeth.
  • Seeing the dentist every six months will enable the patient to get professional dental cleaning. The general dentist will floss, scale, and brush using more advanced tools.
  • Brushing for two minutes, two times a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, can remove food particles and plaque.
  • Limit one’s sugar intake. This will prevent bacteria from feasting and releasing acids that destroy the enamel.
  • Reduce one’s intake of acidic drinks and foods. Acidic foods can erode the enamel.

Providing pain relief

The general dentist can prescribe analgesics that can reduce pain. Many formulations can target different levels of tooth pain. Opioid analgesics need a prescription to treat moderate to severe pain. Non-opioid analgesics can treat moderate tooth pain even without a prescription. The difference is that non-opioid pain relievers are not addictive.

Causes of toothaches

Each tooth contains a dental pulp that holds blood vessels and nerves, as well as connective tissues. Pressure and pain can begin when there is irritation in the pulp. The general dentist will determine the main cause of the tooth pain. Below are the common culprits:

  • Sensitive teeth
  • Tooth decay
  • Jaw-clenching and teeth-grinding
  • Gum disease
  • Dental fracture
  • Tooth pulp inflammation
  • Impacted tooth
  • Abscess

Seeing a general dentist

A toothache causes intense discomfort. An individual can lose focus. The pain can even deprive the individual of proper rest. However, a toothache may be a symptom of a much more serious dental condition, such as an infection. This can manifest through gum inflammation, earache, and fever. This is the right time to see the general dentist.

Your general dentist can help get rid of a toothache with the right treatment

Dental pain can cause your entire body to feel bad. That is why resolving it is vital. The treatment for your toothache will depend on its cause. Working with your general dentist will allow you to achieve relief and better dental health.

Request an appointment here: https://www.bryancousindmd.com or call Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of the North Shore at (781) 443-8268 for an appointment in our Swampscott office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Swampscott, MA.

Recent Posts

What To Expect When Getting Digital X-rays From A General Dentist

Everyone should visit the general dentist twice a year. At these visits, the dentist can catch any oral health issues and treat them before they become more serious. During the visits, usually once a year, you will need x-rays to check on the parts of your mouth that your dentist can’t see with the naked…

Get A Broken Tooth Treated To Avoid Complications

Fixing a broken tooth right away is important. This dental damage may seem like nothing more than a cosmetic problem, but it can lead to terrible consequences. Seeing a dentist sooner rather than later can provide immediate relief. If you want to find out the treatments for a broken tooth and its complications, here are…

Recommended Frequency For General Dentistry Visits

General dentistry offices are responsible for the primary dental care of people of all ages. Dentists perform routine care and maintenance to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. The visits also help dentists diagnose dental issues that may not have obvious symptoms yet. Many people wonder how often they should see their dentist. The answer…

Live Without Worry About Your Oral Health

A general dentist can help decrease the risk of dental infection, helping you have a better weekend.Are you in need of a dental checkup? Has it been more than six months since your last appointment? Then visit our general dentist office for the treatment and professional cleaning you need. Along with checking for signs of…

Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of the North Shore

Share
Published by
Cosmetic & Family Dentistry of the North Shore

Recent Posts

A Guide To Successful Invisalign® Treatment

Many looking to straighten their smile are drawn to Invisalign® clear aligners because they see…

22 hours ago

How Does Invisalign Work to Straighten Teeth?

Invisalign® is gaining a large following because of its comfort and efficiency. More and more…

1 week ago

How Invisalign® for Teens Boosts Confidence

Teens undergo various challenges and physical transformations, such as treatments to align their teeth, which…

2 weeks ago

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Invisalign®?

Those seeking a straighter smile who would like to avoid treatment with braces have another…

3 weeks ago

4 Cosmetic Dentistry Tips for Maintaining a Beautiful Smile

Everybody should be able to smile confidently, and good oral health is essential to this…

4 weeks ago

Common Services Provided by a Family Dentist

A family dentist sees patients of a wide range of ages. This makes them highly…

4 weeks ago