Should My Toothache Concern Me?
March 27, 2020
Does a toothache automatically mean you have a cavity or an infected tooth? When should you see your Kansas City, MO, dentist for treatment? In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, talks about how to safeguard your smile at home, and when you should contact our team for treatment to prevent more serious complications, such as a dental infection.
The Factors Behind an Aching Tooth
A toothache could develop as a result of a chill in the air, changes in elevation, or due to sinus infection or allergy issues. However, these aches pass after a few hours. If you have pain that persists for more than a day, then you likely have a cavity or even an infected tooth. A cavity forms when the outer enamel erodes and exposes the sensitive inner structures to harmful bacteria. As bacteria make contact with these layers, a cavity forms and will continue to grow and spread unless treated. Eventually, the bacteria could reach the inner pulp, and cause an infection. Warning signs of tooth decay often include tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks, as well as toothaches.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
If you have persistent pain that lasts for more than 48 hours, let us know! We will then schedule a time to see you and examine your smile. If we find a cavity, we can often address the issue in one visit with a filling. Made from a metal-fee material, we can shade it to match the color of your tooth. For more serious issues, like infection, we could offer a root canal and cap the tooth with a custom-made dental crown. In between each visit from a patient we thoroughly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces, and we schedule appointments so the waiting room is never packed. We always take steps to ensure the health and safety of our patients!
Tips for Staying Cavity-Free
To lower your risk of cavities, we suggest taking preventive measures. For example, try to cut back on sugary foods and drinks, and enjoy healthier options. This deprives harmful oral bacteria of a meal, limiting the severity of plaque buildup. You also need to brush your teeth for two minutes when you wake up and before going to bed again. You should floss before going to sleep too. If you have any questions about avoiding cavities, or about routine homecare, then please contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About General and Preventive Dentistry?
We’re still available to address issues that could threaten your smile’s health and stability. To learn more about protecting your smile from home or our emergency treatment options, then schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.