Toothache

Often patients call on emergency bases and complain about toothache. The usual cause is decay, but other conditions could be responsible for the pain. If tooth decay is not treated, the decay will eventually reach the pulp of the tooth where the blood vessels and nerves are located. Once decay reaches this tissue, the tooth is likely to ache. Inflamed soft tissues will attempt to swell, the inflamed tissue is restricted by the tooth and this can cause intense pain. Cold packs can help soothe the area, but heat should not be applied because if infection exists heat will cause a bacterial infection to spread. Try not to chew on the tooth, and avoid hot or sweet foods and drink until you are seen by a dentist. An infected tooth can be dangerous for patients with heart disease. Pain is a signal that something is wrong. You should see your dentist for an examination even if the pain goes away.

Endodontic Treatment (Root Canal)

Typically, if examination of a tooth ache reveals infection of the tooth nerve, the only way to save an infected nerve is with root canal. An infected tooth can be sensitive to hot or cold, causing pain, swelling and a bad taste in your mouth. However, an infected tooth doesn't always hurt. Teeth usually become infected when deep cavities allow germs to get into the pulp chamber, where the nerves of the tooth are located. These germs can cause infection which causes the pulp to die.

During root canal therapy, a hole is opened on the top of the tooth to reach the infected area. A dental file is used to clean out the infected tissue and shape the canals to receive filling material. Sometimes a post must be placed into the canal to reinforce the tooth. Finally, a crown is created and placed over the tooth.

Crowns are custom created for each patient to cover and protect the biting surface of the tooth. If a tooth has a large cavity or has had root canal treatment, it is weak and brittle because the center of the tooth has been removed. If a crown is not put in place the tooth may break. However, once a crown is in pace the tooth is still susceptible to cavities. A cavity can develop where the crown and the tooth meet because this is one of the toughest areas to keep free of plaque. Early detection and prevention treatment could avoid a need for root canal in this situation.