A toothache can be a minor annoyance, or it can be nearly agonizing. But whatever the severity, if you have oral pain, you shouldn’t ignore it. Toothaches are often a symptom of an underlying condition, such as decay or infection, which will worsen if it goes untreated. Sometimes, unaddressed oral concerns can even cause systemic health problems.
At Town and Country Dental in Oak Park, IL, Dr. Thomas Wegner and his team offer 24/7 emergency services. We can provide fast relief for your toothache. Plus, our treatments will restore your dental function and protect your long-term oral and physical health.
To learn the cause of your toothache and find out the right treatment, contact our office today.
1. A Cavity
Dental decay is a common reason for a toothache since cavities are the most widespread health problem in the United States. In fact, tooth decay affects 37% of children aged 2 to 8, 58% of adolescents between ages 12 and 19, and nearly 90% of adults aged 20 and above.
But cavity related pain is not as common as you might think. As long as decay is confined to your tooth enamel, it will be asymptomatic, and Dr. Wegner can only diagnose it during a dental exam. For this reason, if you have a toothache due to a cavity, you may need a dental crown, which is larger than a filling.
2. A Dental Infection
When decay reaches the pulp inside your tooth, infection sets in. Bacteria can also travel down your nerves, which run through your root canals. From there, the microbes can move to your gums and even into your bloodstream! Dental infections often cause significant discomfort.
Typically, Dr. Wegner will recommend root canal therapy. He will remove the decayed pulp, clean out your root canals, and fill your tooth with a soft compound. Then he will restore the outside of your tooth with a custom dental crown.
3. A Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth can result in a serious toothache, especially if the crack goes down to your tooth roots. Your treatment will depend on the size and location of the crack. If damage is small and confined to the crown, Dr. Wegner may suggest dental bonding, a filling, or a crown. If the pulp has been affected, you will likely need root canal therapy. Extraction is probably necessary if your root is cracked.
Dr. Wegner will never recommend extraction unless it is 100% necessary. And he will include a highly realistic restoration as part of your treatment plan.
4. Gum Disease
Periodontitis can result in gum inflammation and bleeding. But it can also cause a toothache, especially if your gums have started to recede. Exposed dental roots are highly sensitive to heat and cold, which can make eating almost unbearable.
For mild to moderate cases of gum disease, Dr. Wegner will likely perform scaling and root planing. This procedure will remove damaged tissue and provide a healthy surface so gums can reattach to the underlying tooth. For more advanced cases, he may suggest laser gum surgery.
Schedule Us for Quick Treatment for Your Toothache
You don’t have to suffer from oral pain! Contact our office to book your emergency appointment.
Send us a message online or call us at (708) 383-0330.