Believe it or not, this is a common question. Unfortunately, a toothache is not like a stomach ache and it will not go away on its own. When a tooth causes discomfort, that is its way of telling you that there is something wrong in the oral cavity. It may be due to damage, decay or both, but it requires treatment to heal. Patients sometimes wait too long to seek medical help. This delay in treatment often causes the need for root canal therapy to save the tooth.
Complications of a Toothache
A toothache is almost always caused by some type of bacterial infection in the mouth. It could be as simple as a cavity or as complicated as an abscess which requires antibiotics. When oral infections go untreated, they can spread into the body and cause a variety of complications. If left untreated, tooth loss can also occur.
Root Canal Treatment
Patients who try to power through the pain and wait it out often end up requiring a root canal to save the tooth. If there is infection present, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the infection beforehand. A root canal is a simple procedure in which an endodontist removes the pulp and the nerve of a tooth. The area is then thoroughly but gently cleaned and sealed. Many times, a dental crown is placed to protect the integrity of the tooth.
If you have a toothache it is important to seek treatment at the first sign of discomfort. Early intervention is the best way to alleviate discomfort, save a tooth and care for your general health. If you have a toothache, or you have been told you need root canal therapy, call our team at Access Endodontics. We are equipped to alleviate the discomfort caused by a toothache and stop the spread of infection. The sooner you take action, the better you are going to feel.
