What to Do About a Toothache in Atlanta

by | Feb 6, 2023 | Oral Health

Are you experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity in Atlanta? There are a variety of underlying issues that can cause toothaches. Whether your pain is constant and dull or sharp and sporadic, it’s never a good idea to ignore it.

Keep reading to learn what to do about a toothache in Atlanta and when you should seek professional diagnosis and treatment.

What causes toothaches?

Toothaches occur when the dental pulp becomes inflamed or infected. Dental pulp refers to the nerve and blood supply that lies at the center of the tooth. Deep tooth decay, cracked teeth, loose or failing fillings, or trauma to your tooth/ teeth are common issues that might lead to an inflamed or infected pulp.

Other sources of oral pain that aren’t directly related to the pulp include:

  • Ulcers on the gums
  • Periodontal abscesses
  • Sinusitis
  • Gum swelling related to the emergence of a wisdom tooth or other tooth
  • Muscle related pain

Types of tooth pain

Depending on the underlying issue that’s causing your toothache, you may experience one or more of the following signs or symptoms:

  • Pain when biting, chewing, or speaking
  • Discomfort or throbbing in your mouth, jaw, face, or ears
  • Swelling in your gums, mouth, or face
  • Sensitivity when your teeth are exposed to hot or cold temperatures
  • Headaches or sinus pain

How to deal with tooth pain until you can get in to see your endodontist

If you’re suffering from a toothache, there are several options that can help alleviate the pain until you can get in to see your endodontist. Advil (Ibuprofen) is generally the most effective in helping keep tooth pain at bay. If your physician prefers you to not take Ibuprofen due to your medical history background then Tylenol may also provide some relief. You can also get in touch with your general dentist to review your signs/ symptoms as you may be a candidate for an antibiotic.

When to see a dentist or an endodontist

Whenever you’re dealing with ongoing tooth pain or sensitivity, you should schedule an appointment with a dentist or endodontist in order to resolve the issue.

Never try to self-diagnose the cause of a toothache or rely on over-the-counter pain relievers as a permanent solution. Many dental and endodontic problems will get worse over time if left undiagnosed and untreated. You could end up with a serious infection or lose the tooth completely.

If you experience any type of tooth pain that lasts more than one or two days, schedule an appointment. At Endodontic Excellence of Atlanta, we see patients experiencing all types of tooth pain – and you don’t need a referral to schedule an appointment.

Toothache treatment options

Determining the right treatment for your toothache will depend on the root cause of your discomfort. We can help you diagnose the reason for your toothache through a comprehensive examination and x-rays (both 2-D and 3-D). We’ll develop a treatment plan to alleviate your pain and get your oral health back on track.

Root canal

Root canal therapy is one of the most effective treatments for painful, damaged teeth. At Endodontic Excellence of Atlanta, we specialize in providing comfortable, high-tech root canals.

If the pulp has sustained damage, a root canal can be performed to remove inflamed or infected tissue. Our incredible team is highly experienced and has the knowledge and technology to save your teeth and relieve your discomfort.

Tooth extraction

A tooth extraction may be necessary if the tooth is severely damaged or decayed and cannot be repaired. If this is the recommended treatment for you, Dr. King can help facilitate a referral to an oral surgeon. At that time you, your general dentist, and the surgeon can discuss replacement options, such as an implant.

Gum disease therapy

Your toothache may be caused by a periodontal (gum) infection rather than a root canal infection. Dr. King can help in diagnosing if your toothache is in fact endodontic in origin or rather, periodontal. If it is periodontal, she will help facilitate a referral to a periodontist, a dental professional who specializes in the treatment of the gums.

TMJ/ Muscle therapy

In some cases, your pain may not be caused by problems within the tooth structure itself, but rather by your jaw or muscles of the jaw. TMJ is an acronym for the temporomandibular joint which is located on both sides of your jaw. These joints are what connect your lower jawbone to the temporal bones on your skull, and they allow you to open and close your jaw comfortably. There are 4 major muscles that intertwine in this area as well. Known as the masticatory muscles, these muscles can also cause pain when overused.

If your toothache is the result of TMJ pain or masticatory muscle pain, then targeted treatments such as a bite guard, physical therapy, or even botox may improve your tooth pain.

See an endodontic specialist in Atlanta and let us diagnose and assist in treating your tooth pain

new patient endodontic excellence atlanta ga

At Endodontic Excellence of Atlanta, we’re honored to work with patients of all ages and backgrounds to provide compassionate, patient-focused care. Dr. Megan King is a highly experienced, industry-recognized endodontist dedicated to providing the highest level of treatment to all her patients.

Don’t leave your toothache undiagnosed and untreated. Contact us online to schedule an appointment and learn how we can help!