When Tooth Pain Means Tooth Decay

A toothache is usually caused by tooth infection, which is caused by tooth decay. There are a number of known causes of tooth decay, including smoking, dry mouth, high sugar intake, and not brushing and flossing regularly. Knowing the causes and accounting for them can limit your exposure to tooth decay, and toothache.

When you have a toothache or infected tooth that is caused by tooth decay, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. In less severe circumstances, your tooth pain can be addressed with a filling if you have a cavity, or a crown if the tooth is only partially damaged.

If the infection is more advanced, you may need an emergency root canal. A root canal is necessary when the root of the tooth becomes infected with bacteria brought on by decay. Your dentist or endodontist will remove the inflamed or infected pulp, clean the inner anatomy of the tooth, and replace the pulp with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The tooth is then crowned. Root canal can make your whole mouth work better. Your chewing will be improved and you will have normal sensation in your tooth again. Best of all, you will be pain-free.

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