Tooth pain is definitely a sign of bad things to come if not treated properly.
Please do not ignore these signs! It's best to find out a cause early on then wait until it's too late to be saved.
The first question to ask yourself is, what type of pain is it? The type of pain can tell you a tremendous amount of information as to the next step in treatment.
Type of pain oBrief, short pain oPain when eating or drinking cold food/liquids or exposed to air oLong lasting pulsating pain oNo sensation/tooth discoloration Brief short pain: If the pain only occurs occasionally, such as when drinking cold liquids, this is a sure sign of reversible pulpitis.
Depending on the extent of bacterial invasion and condition of tooth structure, this condition can usually be treated with pulp cap.
The good news is that the pulp of the tooth can likely be saved.
Long lasting pulsating pain: Long lasting lingering pain is usually indicative of irreversible pulpitis.
This means the bacteria has invaded the tooth's pulp and, depending on the extent of invasion, the entire pulp or portion of the pulp may have to be removed.
If the amount of bacterial invasion is extensive, or if a substantial amount of tooth structure has been destroyed, the tooth may have to be extracted.
The treatment options for irreversible pulpitis include: oExtraction oPulpotomy/Pulpectomy oRoot Canal Therapy No sensation/tooth discoloration: If you noticed a major discoloration of the tooth in question, necrotic pulp is probably the culprit.
This means the pulp of the tooth is dead.
If the pulp is dead, the tooth is dead and it needs to be removed.
If substantial tooth structure remains, the dentist may be able to retain the tooth by performing root canal therapy.
The only treatment for necrotic pulp is extraction or root canal therapy.
Keep in mind that a series of tests must be performed by the dentist before a diagnosis can be reached.
Tooth pain can also indicate a fractured root, impacted tooth, gum disease, or even problems with the temporomandibular joint.
So, if you experience any type of pain with a tooth or any structure in your mouth, be sure to contact your dentist as soon as possible for the best possible treatment options.