When you have a toothache and you aren’t sure what it means, the discomfort might not seem like an emergency if it isn’t too severe. The truth is, most toothaches have causes that shouldn’t be ignored. Otherwise, they’ll only grow worse over time, both in terms of discomfort and the affect on your overall oral health. Today, we examine three common techniques that might help you deal with your toothache and stop it from recurring, hopefully before it requires more extensive treatment.
1. Redesign your hygiene routine
The reason healthy teeth don’t usually hurt is because they’re protected by the most resilient substance that your body produces – tooth enamel. This highly mineralized layer is under constant attack from harmful oral bacteria (the building blocks of plaque), and if your hygiene routine isn’t consistent, then these attacks can eventually make your teeth more sensitive. To address the aching, start by reevaluating your hygiene routine. Make sure you brush your teeth twice and floss at least once every single day, and use ADA-approved toothpaste with fluoride to help strengthen your enamel.
2. Opt for early cavity detection
Keeping up with regular checkup and cleaning appointments at your dentist’s office is another key factor in a good hygiene routine. During your visits, ask your dentist about early detection methods, such as DIAGNOdent for early cavity detection. If your tooth continues to hurt even after improving your hygiene routine, then there may be a cavity or other issue already developing. The earlier your dentist detects and treats it, the faster you can alleviate your toothache and the more effectively you can preserve your healthy, natural tooth structure.
3. Have any existing restorations checked
If the tooth that hurts has previously received a restoration, such as a tooth filling, dental crown, and/or root canal treatment, then you should consider the discomfort and emergency and have the tooth checked as soon as possible. Restorations may fail for a variety of reasons, and when they do, the underlying tooth structure becomes immediately exposed to further damage, more extensive infection, or worse. If necessary, your dentist can repair or replace your restoration to alleviate the pain and reduce the risks of your tooth experiencing even more severe troubles.
Learn how to deal with a recurring toothache
Like dealing with most dental issues, managing a recurring toothache requires professional, personalized care from your dentist. For more information, schedule a visit by calling Syosset Dental in Syosset, NY, today at 516-433-2211 or 516-921-1678.
