Tooth pain is a common reason why many patients see their dentist. During your consultation or dental appointment, we’ll evaluate your specific symptoms and create a plan tailored to your needs. When possible, your natural tooth will be preserved. If an extraction is necessary, we follow up with an appropriate restorative procedure to replace the extracted tooth. Sadly, while most treatment options are relatively simple, some are not. This complexity causes questions for many people who may not know where to find the answers. We’ve listed the most common questions people have about dental problems. If we haven’t answered your question, reach out to Frisco Dental at 972.335.2201 to get answers to common FAQs or to make an appointment.
Q: My Tooth Hurts. Do I Have Tooth Decay?
If tooth pain is persistent and worsens, it may be a sign of tooth decay. We commonly treat severe pain with a root canal. When possible, we will remove the inflamed tooth pulp before sealing the tooth with a more definite restoration.
Q: What Is an Abscessed Tooth?
One cause of severe tooth pain is an abscessed tooth, which is a bacterial infection in the center of a tooth. This infection may also spread to surrounding gum tissue and possibly bone.
Q: What Can I Do For Sensitive Teeth?
Sensitive teeth may react to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. We recommend toothpaste for sensitive teeth if the discomfort is minor.
Q: Why Does My Jaw Hurt?
Jaw pain is often a sign of an underlying TMJ disorder. TMJ disorders contribute to tooth pain due to the pressure in the jaw joints when alignment or proper contact between teeth is an issue. This often causes unnecessary teeth grinding and wear.
Q: Why Is It Painful to Chew?
If you experience pain while chewing, a cracked tooth, loose filling, or broken crown could be to blame. Cavities are another common cause of tooth pain that occurs when chewing.
Q: How Can I Take Care of My Teeth?
Attending an appointment at your general dentist’s office every six months is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your teeth. When you attend these dentist appointments, your dentist can make sure that your teeth are staying healthy, and if there are problems, your dentist can address them immediately.
However, you can do something each day to take care of your smile: brush your teeth at least twice a day. If possible, buy a soft-bristled toothbrush. Unfortunately, medium and firm bristled toothbrushes can cause damage to your gums and teeth. In order to make sure you’re protecting your teeth, brush them for at least two minutes a brushing session. It would be best if you also replaced your toothbrush about every three or for months. If the bristles appear splayed out or bent, they don’t clean very well.
In addition, remember to floss at least once a day or twice if you can. Flossing clears plaque and left-over food from between your teeth and under your gum line. If you don’t address these problem areas, the plaque will harden into tartar, which can cause cavities and other dental problems.
Get Answers to Other Common Dental FAQs
Do you still have questions regarding your oral health that the above dental FAQs couldn’t answer? Do you need more information regarding one of the responses above? Turn to the professionals of Frisco Dental Associates. Our dental team is ready to provide answers to all of your questions and concerns regarding your care. To make an appointment with us, contact Frisco Dental Associates today at 972.335.2201.