Tooth pain can interrupt your peaceful day. It can leave your mind racing to think what might be happening inside your mouth. If this occurs, you should schedule an appointment with a Grand Valley dentist so they can determine whether a dental filling or root canal therapy can help address your pain. Read on to learn more about these procedures and when one of them may be the best option for your situation:
Symptoms You Should Not Ignore
Tooth sensitivity and pain can seem similar when they occur. You may not be able to know what procedure you need based on sudden sensation. Sometimes, a dental problem may develop without causing pain.
Usually, a root canal treatment is necessary for deep damage or infection that involves the pulp of the tooth. Before treatment, you may be in serious pain. Pulp refers to the tooth’s soft tissue that has blood vessels and nerves. A tooth injury or decay can expose the pulp and put it at risk of problems. A root canal procedure may need to be done if you are experiencing serious tooth pain whenever you chew or apply pressure to the tooth area. Also, this procedure may be vital if you notice significant sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures during and after exposure to the source. Other signs that may indicate the need for root canal treatment include gum swelling and tenderness, as well as tooth discoloration.
Meanwhile, dental cavities can lead to different degrees of discomfort and depend on their location and size. A cavity can start small and increase in size as it progresses. Dental cavities are often addressed with dental fillings. This is the case when your cavity causes lingering sensitivity to temperatures, an ongoing toothache, tooth surface stains, and a noticeable hole in the tooth.
Since the symptoms of both conditions can overlap, dentists need to closely examine your teeth. When not treated, a cavity can turn into a serious condition that requires a root canal treatment.
The Next Steps to Take
Whenever you feel that something is not right with your gums or teeth, schedule a dental visit as soon as possible. You need a dentist to examine your mouth and address any detected issues.
Depending on your tooth’s state, your dentist may take X-rays to determine how far down the issue has spread. An X-ray can disclose hidden problems that the naked eye cannot see. When your dentist finds the cause of your dental pain, they can recommend appropriate treatment, like a filling or root canal treatment.
