Pain in your tooth that can be described as a toothache is usually caused by:
- Tooth decay from poor oral healthcare
- Abscessed or infected tooth from decay, gum disease, or a cracked tooth
- A tooth fracture or chip
- A damaged filling
- Grinding teeth or over-chewing gum
- Infected gums
Before starting treatment, Dr. Amrish Patel, DMD will carefully examine your mouth, gums, throat, and other related areas to see the condition of your oral health. He will ask about your toothache, what your pain is like, where it's located, and if there's anything that makes it feel better. After this visual exam, he may also take X-Rays or perform other tests, depending on what he thinks the cause of your toothache is.
If your toothache is caused by a cavity or decay, Dr. Amrish Patel, DMD will fill your tooth with tooth-colored fillings. However, if the decay is too large, he may need to extract it. If your tooth is infected, he may need to perform a root canal to remove infected tissue. This saves your natural tooth and also prevents the infection from spreading. He may also prescribe antibiotics, depending on how severe your infection is.
Because most toothaches are results of decay from poor oral hygiene, they can thankfully be prevented most of the time. It's vital to maintain a good oral health routine daily. This means brushing, flossing and using a mouthwash. You should also attend routine checkups and cleanings at our dental office to ensure the health of your smile. Additionally, consider wearing a nightguard if you suffer from nighttime teeth grinding.
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