A toothache is pain usually centered around a tooth, teeth, or jaws, often caused by dental issues like cavities, cracked teeth, exposed roots, or gum disease. It can range from mild to excruciating and may be triggered by chewing or temperature changes. Proper dental examination and x-rays can identify the cause of the toothache.
When a tooth cannot be saved through restorative procedures like root canals or crowns, it may need to be extracted. Tooth extractions today are less painful, thanks to anesthetics and sedatives. After the procedure, patients may require antibiotics and should avoid smoking, vigorous brushing, and using straws to aid healing and prevent infection. Applying cold compresses to the cheek can help reduce swelling and promote faster recovery.
Injuries to the mouth can cause teeth to be pushed back into their sockets. If the tooth is pushed partially out of the socket, your dentist may re-position and stabilize your tooth. If the pulp remains healthy, then no other treatment is necessary. However, if the pulp becomes damaged or infected, root canal treatment will be required.
Root canal treatment is usually started within a few weeks of the injury and a medication, such as calcium hydroxide, will be placed inside the tooth. Eventually, a permanent root canal filling will be placed and the canal will be sealed.
If an injury causes a tooth to be completely knocked out of your mouth, it is important that you seek treatment immediately! It is important to keep the avulsed tooth moist. If possible, put it back into the socket. A tooth can be saved if it remains moist. You can even put the tooth in milk or a glass of water (add a pinch of salt).
Root canal treatment may be necessary based upon the stage of root development. The length of time the tooth was out of your mouth and the way the tooth was stored may influence the type of treatment you receive and how successful the outcome.
