Toothache? What to Do until You Can See an Emergency Dentist in Milpitas

Are you struggling with a painful toothache? It’s important to see an emergency dentist in Milpitas at your earliest convenience. Tooth pain can have many causes, many of which we will look at below. In the meantime, you can manage the discomfort by taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. You might also obtain relief by using cold packs and getting as much rest as possible.

Common Causes of a Toothache

Tooth pain can have a wide range of possible causes, including physical trauma and even some forms of oral cancer. Most often, however, the cause of the problem is harmful bacteria that live inside your mouth.

These microorganisms can be controlled through regular brushing and flossing and by eating a sensible diet. But they can never be permanently removed. Over time they secrete corrosive acids that erode the protective enamel coating on the outside of your teeth. This exposes the sensitive layer inside to infection.

This vulnerable inner layer is called the dental pulp. It’s a soft, yellowish material that’s filled with nerves and blood vessels. As you can imagine, it’s far more sensitive to damage than the enamel exterior. When it becomes infected, it begins to expand, pressing against the outside of the tooth and causing discomfort.

In severe cases, the infection can spread into the jaw itself, causing bone loss and altering your physical appearance. Should this occur, you may need dentures, implants, or even bone grafts to remedy the condition.

FOUR TIPS FOR MANAGING TOOTHACHE DISCOMFORT

Seeing an emergency dentist as soon as possible is crucial when dealing with a toothache. In the meantime, here are some tips for managing the discomfort:

1. Take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen. You’ll find this on the market under name brands like Advil®. Make sure you follow the directions on the packaging.
2. Apply a cold pack to the outside of your mouth to help control swelling. Take care not to let the cold touch the distressed tooth itself. Not only can this increase your pain, it can damage sensitive tissues.
3. Try to rest. If rest is impossible, then you may be able to divert your attention from the pain by engaging in a favorite activity.
4. See a dentist as soon as you can. Prompt care is the fastest way to get past the problem.

ROOT CANALS VERSUS EXTRACTIONS: WHICH IS BETTER?

In most cases, a root canal is preferable to an extraction. Even one missing tooth can affect those that remain, subjecting them to added stress and causing further oral health problems down the road. Today’s root canal techniques are more comfortable and effective than ever before. Extractions are best reserved for emergency situations in which the tooth is too damaged to save.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Toothaches are never any fun. But knowing what to do if one strikes can help you to get through the situation until you can see a dentist in Milpitas. Use the tips in this post as your guide while you work towards a pain-free future.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Sumity Sharma is a licensed California dentist who enjoys living here in the Bay area. Dr. Sharma prides herself on taking a patient-centered approach to dental care. You can reach her office online or by calling (408) 769-5868.