Imagine this scenario: you have a severe toothache that occurs suddenly or gradually gets worse over time, so you contact your dentist for an emergency appointment. Then, despite all the previous discomfort, the throbbing miraculously clears up. It’d be easy to assume that because the pain went away there’s no longer an issue.
Unfortunately, dental issues don’t usually resolve themselves so your oral health could still be at risk. Continue reading to learn more about why you might have experienced this and what it means for your dental well-being!
Do I Need to See My Dentist if My Toothache Goes Away?
Although many potential issues can cause toothaches, the most common among them are cavities. Harmful bacteria in your mouth work in tandem with acids from the food you eat to wear down the protective enamel on your pearly whites. Over time, they can penetrate through the outer layer and into the soft materials inside. When this happens, it leaves the tender nerves exposed and vulnerable to infection.
If you’ve noticed that the throbbing has dissipated, it might not be good news. There’s a possibility that the nerves inside may have been fully destroyed and are no longer capable of feeling anything at all. You’ll need to get to your dentist as soon as possible so they can determine the full extent of the damage and recommend appropriate solutions to maintain your dental health.
How Will My Tooth Be Treated?
There are a couple of ways your dentist could potentially handle the situation. In many cases, they’ll recommend a root canal because it allows them to preserve your natural tooth. During this procedure, they create a small opening in your injured pearly white then use specialized instruments to clear away decayed materials. Then, they’ll sanitize and seal it to prevent germs from reentering. Finally, they’ll place a dental crown over it to protect it so you can continue to eat and speak normally, even if the nerves inside are non-responsive.
However, if the damage is too extensive to withstand this procedure, your dentist might want to extract the offending tooth. This may also be suggested if they’re worried that the decay will spread. Depending on your circumstances, they’ll apply a topical anesthetic or sedate you to pull the tooth or remove it surgically. Once it’s gone, you’ll need a replacement like a dental implant or bridge to fill the gap left behind.
Although it may seem like good news for your toothache to suddenly disappear, it could be a sign that things took a turn for the worse. Contacting your dentist right away is the best way to save your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Holly Maier has more than 15 years of experience providing a wide range of services to help people improve their oral health. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont and then achieved her dental degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. Now, she combines a friendly and compassionate approach with state-of-the-art technology to enhance patient comfort while providing the most effective treatments possible. If you’re in an urgent situation and need help right away, she has same-day appointments available so that you don’t have to wait for relief. You’re welcome to request one on the website or by calling (802) 985-9700.