Would you describe your toothache as throbbing, dull, or sharp? Does it extend into your jaw or does it stop with your tooth? Did you drink something cold or hot? These questions may help determine the reason for your toothache, but only a dentist can give you an accurate diagnosis.
Searching for the “best dentist near me”? Dr. Julie Kardon at TLC Dental Center has treated all types of toothaches throughout her dental career. With years of experience, keen eye, and gentle techniques, she will find the cause of your toothache and create a proper treatment plan. Contact our Cherry Hill dental practice today at (856) 667-1001.
Reasons for a toothache:
1. Tooth decay
Teeth are covered by enamel, which is the hardest substance in the human body. Since this is the case, you may be wondering why teeth break or how certain foods and beverages can harm them. Well, when the bacteria in your mouth consume carbohydrates and sugar, they produce an acidic byproduct. This acid weakens tooth enamel and promotes the demineralization of teeth—enamel becomes soft and vulnerable.
As bacteria infiltrate the tooth, they eat enamel and leave a dark spot behind. This is a cavity. Without treatment, the cavity will grow closer to the dentin and nerve underneath the enamel, so you will experience tooth pain. If this pain is ignored, you will eventually need a root canal, so it’s best to visit your dentist at the first sign of a toothache.
2. Receding gums
Vigorous tooth brushing, genetics, misaligned teeth, and other factors can lead to receding gums. Unfortunately, most people don’t realize their gums have receded until they experience tooth pain. Gum recession leaves the unprotected roots of teeth exposed, and this leads to pain when you consume hot or cold substances. In some cases, even air can cause pain!
If you have receding gums, you may also have gingivitis, which can escalate to cause tooth loss. Treatment for gum recession can be as simple as a deep dental cleaning or you may require a gum graft. Dr. Kardon will determine the right treatment for your situation at your exam.
3. Erupting wisdom teeth
When wisdom teeth develop, they cause pain regardless of whether you will need them removed. However, you should visit Dr. Kardon to determine if the pain can be remedied by over-the-counter medication or if the wisdom tooth is impacted. If your mouth doesn’t have enough space for your wisdom teeth to fully erupt, the tooth is impacted. Inflammation or infection can increase the pain. In most situations, impacted wisdom teeth should be removed to eliminate current pain and potential future discomfort.
Dr. Kardon will decide the best course of care for your wisdom tooth pain.
4. Teeth grinding
Oftentimes, teeth grinding (or bruxism) happens while you sleep. Bruxism is caused by dental misalignment, jaw misalignment, anxiety, or stress. If you wake up with a dull headache morning after morning, and your jaws feel sore, you may be a bruxer.
If left untreated, bruxism can lead to broken or cracked teeth, infection, and TMJ disorder. Dr. Kardon diagnose the cause of your teeth grinding and fit you for a mouth guard to stop bruxism, which will relieve symptoms and keep you from inadvertently harming your molars.
5. Broken tooth
Tooth enamel is tough, but accidents happen all the time. Most people believe that a broken or chipped tooth isn’t a big deal, especially if it isn’t noticeable. However, if you have tooth pain, your damaged tooth needs to be examined by a dentist. You may need a crown or in-office bonding to relieve your pain and restore the tooth’s shape.
6. Waiting
Often times, busy residents of Cherry Hill delay remedying dental pain. It certainly is understandable given how complex commuting has become. Whether you live near Browning or have a home in Sewell, TLC Dental Care is open now to fix your toothache so that you don’t have to delay or wait any longer.
Find Relief Today
Toothaches should never be ignored. Dr. Kardon, the “dentist near me,” is ready to address the cause of your tooth pain and provide effective, gentle care. Schedule an appointment with us today.