Don't keep ignoring your toothache. This is important advice from Batavia, IL dentist, Dr. John C. Koechley, who has seen patients suffer needlessly from dental pain. Here are the sources of toothache discomfort and how he often treats them at his dental practice.

Why Your Tooth Hurts

The American Association of Endodontists, dentists highly skilled in dental implant placement and root canal therapy, say that sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages causes tooth pain in children and adults.Why are teeth sensitive to temperature extremes? A small cavity, hairline crack or deteriorating filling may be allowing hot or cold to transfer through tooth enamel and dentin and into the innervated soft tooth pulp. Also, receded gums and thin enamel which expose tooth roots give the same painful effect.

Another common cause is a dental abscess or infection. Resulting from periodontitis (advanced gum disease) or deep decay, abscesses destroy tooth pulp and can even travel out the root into surrounding jaw bone. Redness, swelling, pus around the tooth, bad breath and serious discomfort should alert you to call Dr. Koechley immediately for information on how to proceed.

Root canal therapy, also called endodontics, is a reliable way to treat a dental abscess and save a sick tooth from extraction. This procedure is comfortable and takes just two dental visits. A root canal removes infected pulp and caps the tooth, strengthening it and keeping it from additional decay or injury.

Jaw injury, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) Dysfunction and teeth grinding, or bruxism, cause toothaches as well. A fractured jaw requires a trip to the local ER. TMJ and bruxism are often treated and pain relieved with customized mouth guards that cushion teeth and rightly align top and bottom jaws for a better functioning joint.

Finally, your tooth may hurt because it has been partially knocked out or evulsed. Dr. Koechley recommends replacing it in the socket, if possible, and holding it in place while travelling to his office. The American Dental Association and other professional dental entities state that if a tooth is evulsed, it may be completely restored if seen by a dentist within an hour of injury.

The Moral of the Story

When it comes to dental pain, Dr. Koechley, your Batavia, IL dentist, wants you to act at the first sign of discomfort. Quick action relieves pain and preserves your tooth. Additionally, good oral hygiene at home and regular dental check-ups and cleanings go a long way to keeping teeth and gums healthy. Plus, when you see Dr. Koechley every six months, he will spot small problems and treat them before they become painful and expensive.

Do You Have a Toothache?

Don't ignore it. Call the offices of John C. Koechley DDS for an appointment, and schedule your routine exam and cleaning, too.