If you have a toothache, you’re not alone. In fact, according to the CDC, about 40% of adults have tooth pain every year.
And, if you’re like many people, you’re probably wondering just how long you can wait before you need to see the dentist — or if taking a “wait and see” approach will result in your pain disappearing entirely.
The fact is, while minor tooth pain may resolve on its own depending on its underlying cause, most toothaches are a clear sign that care is needed, and delaying that care will only wind up making things worse.
The team at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC specializes in relieving tooth pain and preserving damaged teeth, with patient-entered treatments like state-of-the-art root canal therapy. Here, learn why toothaches happen and if it’s ever OK to just “wait and see” if your tooth pain will go away.
One reason why toothaches are so common is simple: Lots of issues can cause them, including these three relatively common problems.
Tooth decay is certainly one common cause, and plenty of people associate tooth pain with a developing cavity. Cavities happen when bacteria in your mouth multiply, producing acids that eat away at the protective outer layer of tooth enamel and exposing the softer inner layers of your tooth.
Unfortunately, this type of enamel damage is permanent, and over time, your cavity is likely to become worse. Fillings (and root canals for deeper damage) help treat decay and prevent more serious infections.
Cracks and broken teeth can happen from falls or other injuries or from biting on something hard — or at least harder than your tooth. Cracks and fractures can cause pain on their own, and they also pave the way for bacteria to trigger deep infections.
Infections
Infections are another toothache cause, occurring when germs get inside the tooth or the gum tissue. Infections often cause throbbing pain that’s worse when biting or chewing. Most infections require antibiotics along with dental treatment to eliminate germs and prevent more serious problems.
Sometimes, tooth pain can be caused by something simple, like temporary gum irritation, eating chewy foods, or muscle tension in your jaws. In those cases, a little self-care may be all it takes to eliminate pain and the underlying cause.
Other times, a little TLC can help relieve pain temporarily — but you still need to schedule a dental visit ASAP.
So what steps can you take?
You can combine one, two, or all three of these tried-and-true methods while you’re waiting to see the dentist.
Unless you’re sure your tooth pain is caused by something temporary, like food lodged between your teeth, it’s important to call the office and schedule an evaluation as soon as possible. Delaying care can lead to far more serious problems, including deep infections and even tooth loss.
Certainly, it’s important to call the office right away if:
Because the underlying source of tooth pain is often hard to determine, any type of pain should be evaluated by your dentist as soon as possible to protect your oral health, your overall wellness, and your beautiful smile.
It might be tempting to ignore tooth pain, especially when it’s mild. But seeking care right away is important for preventing minor issues from becoming major problems.
To find out what’s causing your toothache — and how we can help — call 929-229-0255 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC in New York City today.
