Not too many people will schedule an appointment to see a dentist the moment they feel the slightest bit of pain in a tooth. On the other hand, there are far too many people who will put off seeing a dentist until the pain in a tooth is just too much to bear.
Think Simple First
Tooth pain can be caused by consuming foods that are too hot or too cold. Food that has become lodged between a tooth and the gums can also be the cause of mild pain in many cases. First, eliminate this possibility by flossing and rinsing out your mouth with warm water. Slight swelling in this case should start to raise some alarms, especially if the pain is not reduced by applying cold pressure.
More Than Aesthetic
Some people do not believe that a chipped tooth constitutes an emergency or even requires a trip to the dentist. However, serious damage can result, depending on the amount of the tooth that has been broken off. People are advised to save the broken pieces when possible and see a professional as soon as possible. In the meantime, rinse all parts of the tooth with warm water and apply gauze over any areas that are painful or bleeding.
Cold Sore or Infection
Infections can start off as minor irritants that progressively get worse over time. Many people mistake infectious areas of the mouth as cold sores and do nothing until the area has become a problem that is much more serious. Infections in the mouth can quickly spread to other part of the body through the blood stream, making this issue a very serious one. Infections will not heal in a week to two-week period, making it necessary to visit a dentist as soon as possible. If warm salt water and swollen gums accompany an area of the mouth that is sensitive to heat, then you know you have a problem on your hands.
When It Is Too Late
Infection as a result of tooth decay can lead to a situation in which there is no option other than extraction. At this point, the pain is likely to be so severe that you will certainly be aware that the professionals must intervene. When infections reach the nerves and blood vessels at the center of the tooth, there is little that can be done outside of this process. Extractions in Indianapolis are pretty much the only remaining options once tooth decay is this advanced and Root Canals are out of the question.
It is important to understand the difference between mild tooth pain that is the result of minor irritation versus the pain in a tooth that is leading to serious dental problems. Knowing the right time to leave your teeth in the hands of the professionals can mean the difference between serious pain and extensive dental work as opposed to unnecessary visits that create a pain in the wallet.