Severe Tooth Pain? Time to See an Endodontist

If you are dealing with tooth pain, whether dull and achy or sharp and throbbing, biting and chewing normally can be hard and seeing an endodontist may be necessary. Tooth pain alters your lifestyle, as you cannot work, sleep, or concentrate despite taking any over-the-counter painkillers.

Many conditions, including injury and tooth infection, can cause tooth pain. No matter the cause, if you continue to experience pain, then it is time to see an endodontist for treatment. An endodontist is a specialized dentist with the skills to save your tooth when infections or injuries occur.

In this article, we will cover different types of tooth pain, their likely causes, and steps you can take to ease the pain.

Tooth pain: Symptoms and possible causes

Temporary sensitivity to hot or cold foods

Likely causes: Normally, this is not always a sign of a complicated situation, except if the sensitivity lingers for extended periods at a time. Sensitivity may be a result of mild dental decay, an unstable filling or slight recession of the gum, which uncovers little aspects of the root surfaces.

Actions to take: You can get toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and brush your teeth with soft-bristled brushes. Use up-and-down strokes rather than side-to-side, as that can further expose the root surfaces. If the sensitivity persists after a few days, it is time to consult a dental expert.

Sensitivity to hot or cold foods following dental treatment

Likely causes: There is a chance the recent dental treatment has resulted in pulp irritation inside the tooth tissue.

Actions to take: Give the pain about two to four weeks to see if it alleviates or worsens. If it persists, return to the endodontist to ensure it is not due to a complication.

Acute pain when biting or chewing

Likely causes: This uncomfortable feeling may be a result of tooth decay, a loose filling or tooth fracture. There is also a chance that the pulp tissue in the tooth is damaged.

Actions to take: Book an appointment with a dentist for an evaluation. You may be referred to an endodontist if the pulp tissue is infected. A root canal may be necessary to clean out the infected pulp tissue.

Persistent pain, usually lasting more than 30 seconds at a time

Likely causes: It is possible that the tooth pulp has been irreparably damaged by tooth decay or a physical injury.

Actions to take: An endodontist is qualified to handle pulp-related issues. Make sure you book an appointment immediately before the condition worsens.

Persistent and chronic pain, gum inflammation and sensitivity

Likely cause: Tooth abscess may have occurred, resulting in tissue and jawbone infections.

Actions to take: Take over-the-counter painkillers before you visit an endodontist.

Dull pain and pressure in the upper jaw and teeth

Likely causes: Teeth grinding, or bruxism is usually responsible. A sinus headache may also cause pain in the teeth and face.

Actions to take: A dentist can recommend a mouth-guard to curb teeth grinding. In severe cases, you may need endodontic or medical evaluation.

Bottom line

If you are worried about tooth pain or have questions, talk to one of our dental professionals as soon as possible. This will help us recommend possible solutions before the condition worsens.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Eastside Dental, request an appointment in our Milwaukee office here: https://www.esdmke.com. Or call us at (414) 888-4000.

Check out what others are saying about our Fastbraces® services on Yelp: Endodontic Surgery.