Categories: General Dentist

What a General Dentist Does for a Toothache

A general dentist can relieve a toothache after a proper assessment. This type of dental problem is often accompanied by swelling. It may even occur with a migraine, fever, or earache. Tooth pain needs immediate treatment. Here are the details on what a general dentist can do for a toothache.

A thorough dental exam

Each toothache is different. That is why the general dentist will treat each one based on its main cause. Some aches result from minor irritation. Others involve nerve issues.

The dentist will first do a physical dental exam to assess the tooth. Ordering dental X-rays will help determine if there are any hidden causes to consider. Asking the patient about any current medical condition or medication can help form a diagnosis. Only then will the general dentist begin the treatment.

Dental filling

The general dentist will drill away the decayed tooth if there is already some cavity formation. Placing dental fillings in the holes will follow. A curing light will harden the fillings and keep them in place. Shaping and polishing the fillings will follow. This will ensure a comfortable bite. It will also help the fillings blend well with the dental structure.

Fluoride treatment

Holes or cavities develop when tooth decay worsens. Trapped food particles in the holes cause pain. Fluoride treatment from a general dentist can reverse the damage that results from tooth decay in its early stages. This natural element can repair the enamel. It can even protect the teeth by making them more cavity-resistant.

Tooth extraction

Severe tooth decay or damage can reach the deepest parts of the tooth. The general dentist will assess the tooth if the damage or infection has gone beyond the gumline. Repairs may not be enough anymore. Removing the tooth will help stop the spread of infection and the pain. Discussing possible tooth replacement types can help the patient decide which one will suit the individual the most.

Root canal

The goal of this treatment is to keep the dental structure intact. Removing the infected or damaged pulp will follow after making an opening in the tooth. Cleaning, disinfecting, and drying the pulp chamber will come next. The general dentist will fill the chamber with gutta-percha, which will stabilize the tooth. Placing a custom dental crown over the treated tooth will protect and strengthen it.

Preventing a toothache

This condition can happen to anyone at any given time. Dental damage causes pain, which differs in severity. Stopping the pain is a priority. Dismissing it will allow the damage to worsen. The ideal way to prevent dental damage is to care for one’s teeth. Below are some tips on how to keep toothaches at bay:

  • Drink more water to buffer the bacterial acids in the mouth. Take in non-acidic foods as well.
  • Floss every day to get rid of the plaque and food particles between teeth.
  • Seeing the dentist every six months will enable the patient to get professional dental cleaning. The general dentist will floss, scale, and brush using more advanced tools.
  • Brushing for two minutes, two times a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, can remove food particles and plaque.
  • Limit one’s sugar intake. This will prevent bacteria from feasting and releasing acids that destroy the enamel.
  • Reduce one’s intake of acidic drinks and foods. Acidic foods can erode the enamel.

Providing pain relief

The general dentist can prescribe analgesics that can reduce pain. Many formulations can target different levels of tooth pain. Opioid analgesics need a prescription to treat moderate to severe pain. Non-opioid analgesics can treat moderate tooth pain even without a prescription. The difference is that non-opioid pain relievers are not addictive.

Causes of toothaches

Each tooth contains a dental pulp that holds blood vessels and nerves, as well as connective tissues. Pressure and pain can begin when there is irritation in the pulp. The general dentist will determine the main cause of the tooth pain. Below are the common culprits:

  • Sensitive teeth
  • Tooth decay
  • Jaw-clenching and teeth-grinding
  • Gum disease
  • Dental fracture
  • Tooth pulp inflammation
  • Impacted tooth
  • Abscess

Seeing a general dentist

A toothache causes intense discomfort. An individual can lose focus. The pain can even deprive the individual of proper rest. However, a toothache may be a symptom of a much more serious dental condition, such as an infection. This can manifest through gum inflammation, earache, and fever. This is the right time to see the general dentist.

Your general dentist can help get rid of a toothache with the right treatment

Dental pain can cause your entire body to feel bad. That is why resolving it is vital. The treatment for your toothache will depend on its cause. Working with your general dentist will allow you to achieve relief and better dental health.

Request an appointment here: https://hemetdentalcenter.com or call Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC. at (951) 707-4366 for an appointment in our Hemet office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Hemet, CA.

Recent Posts

Commonly Asked General Dentistry Questions About Toothaches

General dentistry commonly handles toothaches among other dental concerns. While this is a routine issue that is easily treatable, it is common for patients to have several questions about it and what they should do if they experience it. Here we will answer some commonly asked general dentistry questions and advice on the best ways…

General Dentistry: What To Expect During A Teeth Cleaning

Curious about what happens during a teeth cleaning at a general gentistry office? Read on to learn more about what to expect during a professional dental cleaning. You may be aware that the dentist cleans your teeth and examines your mouth for signs of oral issues, but you might not know the exact steps involved.…

How Regular Visits To A General Dentist Can Keep Your Teeth Healthy

Your general dentist can help you achieve optimal dental health. Routine dental checks can even improve the way you care for your teeth. Busy schedules tend to prevent you from keeping your dental appointments. Making time for dental checks can help your teeth in many ways. If you want to know how routine dental visits…

What To Expect When Getting X-rays From A General Dentist

Many patients visiting a general dentist do not fully understand the use of dental X-rays. Patients may wonder if this type of imaging is completely necessary, and it is important to understand the risks and benefits of the procedure. Dental X-ray exposure is safer than ever before, and when patients are knowledgeable about the procedure,…

Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC.

Share
Published by
Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC.

Recent Posts

Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth: Can It be a Removable Denture?

A lost tooth can be a challenging situation to deal with in your life. Fortunately,…

1 day ago

How a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth Can Improve Your Smile

If you are like many people, your smile is one of your most treasured assets.…

3 days ago

When Can I Get a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth?

A partial denture for one missing tooth is a good solution for many people who…

1 week ago

Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Periodontitis is a progressive form of periodontal disease that most often causes gum recession and…

1 week ago

The Benefits of a Partial Denture for One Missing Tooth

If you are looking for a tooth replacement method, you may want to consider a…

1 week ago

Oral Issues Your Dentist Looks for During a Dental Exam

Gum disease is also very common, affecting nearly half of the population in the United…

3 weeks ago