Toothaches can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain that affects your daily life. Whether the pain is sharp or constant, it’s essential to understand that a toothache is usually a sign of an underlying dental issue that needs professional attention. At Covina Family Dental, Dr. Danny Tran is a dentist for toothache in Covina who provides expert care to relieve your toothache and address the root cause of the problem. This post will explore common causes of toothache when seeking dental care and how Covina Family Dental can help.
Common Causes of a Toothache
Toothaches can arise from various issues, some requiring immediate emergency dental treatment. Here are the most common causes of tooth pain:
Tooth Decay
Cavities, or tooth decay, are the most common cause of toothaches. As decay progresses, it can reach the inner layers of the tooth, causing pain, sensitivity, and infection. Early treatment with fillings or other restorative procedures can prevent further damage.
Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, affects the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. When left untreated, gum disease can cause the gums to recede and expose the tooth roots, leading to sensitivity and tooth pain.
Tooth Abscess
An abscess is a serious infection that can develop around the root of a tooth or in the gums. It causes sharp, throbbing pain and requires immediate dental attention to prevent the infection from spreading.
Tooth Fracture
Cracks or fractures in a tooth can occur from trauma, biting on something hard, or untreated cavities. These fractures can expose the tooth’s nerve, leading to significant pain, especially when chewing or biting.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth that do not fully emerge or grow in the wrong direction can become impacted. This can lead to pressure, swelling, and pain in the jaw, which may feel like a toothache.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Chronic teeth grinding can cause tooth wear, cracks, and increased sensitivity, resulting in toothaches. Often, patients are unaware they are grinding their teeth, as it commonly occurs during sleep. At Covina Family Dental, we provide night guards for teeth grinding.
Dental Trauma
Accidents or injuries to the mouth, such as sports injuries or falls, can damage the teeth, gums, or jaw, leading to acute tooth pain.
When to See a Dentist for a Toothache in Covina
Not all toothaches require emergency dental care, but specific symptoms indicate it’s time to see a dentist as soon as possible. If you experience any of the following, schedule an appointment with Covina Family Dental:
- Persistent Pain: If your toothache lasts more than 24 hours or intensifies over time, seeking professional evaluation is essential.
- Swelling or Redness: Swelling in the gums or face and redness may indicate an infection requiring prompt treatment.
- Fever: A toothache accompanied by a fever could suggest a severe infection, such as an abscess, that needs immediate attention.
- Sensitivity to Temperature: If your tooth is susceptible to hot or cold foods and beverages, this could be a sign of decay or damage to the tooth’s nerve.
- Pain When Chewing: Pain that worsens when chewing or biting may indicate a cracked tooth, cavity, or infection that needs to be addressed.
How Covina Family Dental Treats Toothaches
At Covina Family Dental, Dr. Danny Tran provides comprehensive care to diagnose and treat the source of your toothache. Here’s what you can expect during your visit:
Thorough Examination
Dr. Tran will ask about your symptoms, pain level, and medical history. He will perform a detailed examination of your teeth and gums, potentially taking X-rays to identify underlying issues such as cavities, fractures, or infections.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Once the cause of your toothache is determined, Dr. Tran will explain the necessary treatment options. Depending on the diagnosis, treatments may include:
- Fillings or Crowns: For cavities or fractured teeth, Dr. Tran may recommend a filling or crown to restore the tooth’s structure and protect it from further damage.
- Root Canal Therapy: If the tooth’s nerve is infected or damaged, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth and alleviate pain.
- Extraction: In cases where the tooth cannot be saved, Dr. Tran may perform an extraction to prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth or the jawbone.
- Gum Treatment: If gum disease is the culprit, deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) or other periodontal treatments may be recommended to heal the gums and reduce tooth sensitivity.
Pain Relief and Aftercare
Dr. Tran will provide recommendations for managing pain and discomfort at home, which may include over-the-counter pain relievers, salt water rinses, and tips for avoiding irritation. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat or prevent infection.
Preventing Future Toothaches
At Covina Family Dental in Covina, prevention is vital to avoiding future toothaches. Dr. Tran encourages patients to maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings to catch issues early before they become painful. Practicing good oral hygiene at home, such as brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and avoiding sugary foods, can also help prevent cavities and gum disease.
Your Expert Dentist for a Toothache in Covina
If you’re experiencing pain and need a dentist for a toothache in Covina, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Dr. Danny Tran and the team at Covina Family Dental are here to provide compassionate, effective care to relieve your discomfort and restore your oral health. With expert diagnosis and personalized treatment options, you can trust us to get to the root of the problem and help you smile again, pain-free. Schedule an appointment today!
