You’ve been struggling with a toothache for quite a while. Then one day, the pain suddenly vanishes. Does this mean the problem took care of itself? Unfortunately, this is most likely not the case. Even if your toothache disappears, you may still have a dental emergency that should be treated quickly. Below is a closer look at what the sudden loss of pain truly means and what you need to do to protect your smile.
Why Has Your Toothache Stopped?
A toothache is often a symptom of a serious infection. Every tooth contains a collection of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue known as the pulp. If your tooth becomes damaged or decayed, harmful bacteria can attack the pulp, resulting in significant pain.
Eventually, the nerves inside the tooth die altogether, which causes the pain to stop. However, the infection is still present, and it could potentially start to spread. If it reaches your jawbone, it can cause further pain, and it may even lead to damage that might result in tooth loss. In the worst-case scenario, the infection could lead to a life-threatening condition called sepsis.
What Should You Do If Your Toothache Suddenly Stops?
If you haven’t already spoken to a dentist about your toothache, the sudden loss of pain should be taken as a sign that you need to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Your dentist can examine your tooth in order to accurately identify what the underlying problem is and determine your options for treatment.
The best method for dealing with a toothache can vary depending on the situation. In some cases, it may be possible to remove the infected pulp while leaving the rest of the tooth in your mouth. However, if the tooth has already suffered too much damage and is beyond salvaging, then it may need to be removed and replaced. Rest assured that your dentist will consider the specifics of your situation very carefully before making any recommendations.
How Can You Avoid Toothaches in the Future?
Once your toothache has been resolved, you’ll naturally want to know what you can do to avoid similar issues in the future. One step you’ll definitely want to take is to improve your oral hygiene routine; it’s essential to brush and floss thoroughly at least two times a day. On top of that, you also need to visit your dentist every six months at minimum so that they can check your smile for signs of decay. Catching and treating problems early can go a long way toward helping you avoid tooth infections and other serious oral health threats.
Remember, a toothache is not something you want to ignore for too long, and the need to see a dentist doesn’t diminish just because your pain went away. Be proactive about setting up a dental appointment so that you can find relief from your discomfort and protect your oral health!
About the Author
Dr. Ray Bollin studied dentistry at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, and he has taken many courses focused on endodontics and other topics. At Sunset Avenue Dental in Springdale, he is happy to help patients suffering from toothaches and other dental emergencies. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Bollin, visit his website or call (479) 419-9991.