You’re suddenly awake in the middle of the night, and there’s no question why. Your tooth is searing with pain. When you went to bed it hurt and you took some ibuprofen; however, it’s reached a new level and the medication isn’t even touching the pain. What could’ve caused this unrelenting discomfort? Could you have avoided this situation? Your emergency dentist in Phoenix has answers.
Dental Infection
When you experience the type of constant dental pain that keeps you awake at night, it is likely that your tooth is infected. This happens when:
- Your tooth is deeply cracked or fractured
- A tooth is traumatized from an injury or accident
- You have advanced periodontal (gum) disease, or periodontitis
- Decay has reached the nerve inside your tooth
What to Know About Dental Infections
If your tooth is infected, it is important to note that it will not go away without treatment. Please don’t wait to see your dentist thinking that this condition will improve.
If a dental infection is left untreated, it can actually spread to other teeth and put them at risk. It can also travel to other critical areas of your body such as your brain. An untreated infection in your tooth will eventually result in tooth loss, so it’s important to seek treatment right away.
How Will My Tooth be Treated?
If you’re proactive about seeking treatment for your tooth, it can often be preserved with root canal therapy. This procedure removes the infected tissue from inside your tooth, preserving its natural structure. After it heals, it will need to be strengthened with a dental filling or crown in order to ensure you have all the function you had before your infection.
If there is something else causing your pain, such as a foreign object or a broken or lost restoration, your dentist can recommend the appropriate procedure to restore your tooth back to health.
Avoiding Dental Infections
Did you know that many dental infections could’ve been prevented? It’s true! With consistent visits to your dentist every six months, issues such as gum disease, fractures, and tooth decay can be detected early on so you can avoid pain, infection, and complex treatment procedures.
Are you experiencing dental pain? Or is it time for your next cleaning or checkup? Contact your dentist in Phoenix today to schedule an appointment.
About the Author
Smile Fitness Dental Centers is comprised of a highly skilled team of dentists led by Dr. Douglas Gordon, who has been serving patients in Phoenix for over 30 years. This group combines their skills and talents to deliver comprehensive and high quality dental services to their patients.
If you would like to learn more about Smile Fitness Dental Centers, please contact us through our website or by calling 623-849-0477.