| Allan I. Abolafia, D.D.S. |  |
Allen W. Ackerman, D.D.S. |
| THE TOOTH TRIBUNE |
WHAT'S A TOOTHACHE?
We've all had one, but most of us would find it difficult to say what it is, why it happens and, most important of all, what to do to prevent getting one again.
Toothaches come in different intensities. What is most confusing when
you try to explain how you hurt is that the pain "feels" different
on different occasions. Sometimes it manifests itself as a dull aching
sensation, sometimes there is throbbing or pulsating pain, sometimes
there is a sharp, continuous pain.
With your cooperation, it becomes your dentist's job as a health-care detective to find out what is causing your pain and then to offer you relief. Tooth pain can have a variety of causes. It might surprise you to see how many things can actually produce what we call "a toothache." Just some of those things are:
Your best weapon against toothaches that are tooth-related is a regular
routine of preventive dental care. Home care such as brushing and
flossing, combined with regular checkups and cleanings are your first
line of defense. If, despite your efforts to be conscientious about
your oral health, a toothache "appears," call the office for an appointment.
Most toothache difficulties have a fairly simple "fix."
At times, your teeth become sensitive from having dental work done. Working on your teeth, on occasion, inflames the pulp or nerves. Feel free to discuss such sensitivity with your dentist when having dental work done. If you experience any problems after you leave the office, you can always feel comfortable calling the office for further information.
If you find that your teeth are routinely sensitive and not a result of any special problems, ask your dentist to suggest a toothpaste that is made specifically for sensitive teeth.
Be careful not to overlook pain from hot or cold foods that lingers. Such sensitivity may signal damage to the nerve of the tooth. You may require the intervention of your general dentist or special care by an endodontist for root canal treatment.
If, after conferring with and examining you, your dentist decides that your toothache is not a result of a dental problem, he probably can recommend another professional who can help you. Whatever you do, never ignore a toothache because it is your body's way of telling you that something's not right!