Have you noticed your tooth has started feeling sensitive, or possibly even ache? A toothache could be telling you lots of things, possibly even alerting you to the presence of a cavity or an infection. Since your Garland, TX, dentist is still offering emergency care on a case-by-case basis, we can help address the factors behind an aching tooth and preserve your smile in the process.
Dental Cavities
While some toothaches could be linked to sinus or allergy issues, or even signal changes in elevation, these tend to pass after a few hours. Aches that persist for more than a day or two could mean a cavity. A dental cavity forms when harmful bacteria reaches the inner dentin, the sensitive structure usually protected by the outer enamel. However, poor oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing, or diets high in sugar and starch, could create plaque buildup that weakens and erodes enamel, exposing the dentin to bacteria. As the cavity spreads, the discomfort will worsen!
Dental Infection
An infection happens when a broken or cracked tooth exposes the inner pulp, the tooth’s nerve center that is usually surrounded by dentin. In addition, an untreated cavity could eventually reach the pulp and lead to an infection. Along with tooth sensitivity and toothaches, people with infected teeth may report pain when biting down or chewing, swelling near the tooth, or even a bad tasting discharge from the tooth itself. Don’t ignore these warning signs, talk to our team right away, we don’t want you to risk losing your tooth!
Cracks and Chips
When we damage a tooth, even if said damage appears minor, this could still compromise the enamel and expose the dentin and/or pulp to bacteria, leading to cavities and infection. Be sure to let us know if you damage a tooth. Damaged teeth, or cavities or infection, are dental emergencies that we can still offer treatments for to restore the tooth to optimal health, function, and beauty. When you see our team for treatment, we will schedule visits to ensure you don’t share the waiting room with others. We also make sure to clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces in between each visit. We’ll also be wearing gloves and masks as well, and follow strict health and safety protocols to protect our patients’ health and safety.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT TREATING DENTAL EMERGENCIES?
If you have pain in one or more of your teeth, then you likely have a serious concern that requires treatment. To learn more about treating common dental emergencies, then schedule a consultation by calling Mai Dentistry in Garland, TX, today at 972-530-0552. For our patients who don’t speak English, our office is fluent in both Spanish and Vietnamese.
