If you begin to experience pain in one or more of your teeth, this could signal the onset of a cavity, or possibly an infection! We’re still providing emergency care for Newhall, CA, patients on a case-by-case basis, so if your tooth hurts, then let us know! In today’s blog, we’re going to talk about what we can do to halt discomfort in your smile.
The Dangers of an Aching Tooth
If you begin to experience pain or sensitivity that lasts for more than 48 hours, then your tooth could have a cavity or infection. Usually, the outer enamel, the hardest substance in the human body, protects the sensitive inner tooth structures from harmful bacteria. But when poor oral hygiene leads to plaque buildup on the teeth, this weakens the enamel and causes cavities. Tooth decay could also form as a result of injury cracking or chipping the tooth, exposing the inner structure to bacteria and allowing cavities to form. Unless treated, the cavity could spread to the pulp, causing the tooth to become infected or abscessed. At this stage you risk losing your tooth and developing an unsightly gap in your smile.
Possible Treatment Options
How do we treat a cavity? For most cases of tooth decay, we offer a solution in just one visit with a dental filling. We remove the decay from the tooth and then thoroughly clean it. We apply a metal-free composite resin material that we shade to blend with the tooth’s color. Then we cure the tooth and polish it for a more natural appearance. Should you have a more advanced cavity, or an infected tooth, then we will remove the decay and infection and clean the inside of the tooth. We add a special restorative material and then cap the tooth with a custom-made crown. Known as a root canal, this restores the tooth and prevents any further discomfort.
Preventive Care
To avoid the need to see us, you can take steps to help prevent cavities. For example, start each day by brushing your teeth for about two minutes and then flossing thoroughly before going to bed. You also need to brush before bed too! Cut back on sugary foods and drinks, as sugar and starch feed harmful bacteria. By taking care of your smile and enjoying a healthier diet, you limit the chances of tooth decay or cavities. If you have any questions, then contact our team today!
Do You Have Questions About Pain in Your Tooth?
Our team is ready to answer your questions about homecare or address your emergency dental issues. To learn more about preventive homecare and emergency treatments, please schedule a consultation by calling Newhall Dental Arts in Newhall, CA, today at (661) 259-7760.