Are you experiencing a toothache? Do you know why you have a toothache? Have you been examined by a dentist? Discomfort and pain from a toothache could lead to a variety of oral conditions. A toothache can vary from moderate discomfort to sever pain. Also, the intensity of pain could indicate the level of invasive treatment needed to correct the condition. The pain will not dissipate over time, and the proactive action is to schedule an appointment with Dr. Smith in Grand Prairie, TX for oral diagnosis and treatment.
How Your Teeth Are Structured
First Layer:
Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the body. It’s strength derives from the tightly packed calcium and phosphate crystals, creating a compound called calcium-phosphate. Once developed, enamel is not considered a live tissue. The enamel protects the second layer of the tooth called the dentin.
Second Layer:
The dentin is a softer substance similar to bone. It is compressible and sensitive. Miniature tubules connect the dentin to the nerve inside the tooth core called the pulp. Dentin is a live tissue, unlike enamel.
Third Layer:
The tooth core (pulp chamber) is the housing for nerves and blood vessels. Nutrients are supplied to the teeth through the pulp. The nerves and blood vessels are connected to the surrounding soft tissues at the roots tip.
How Infection Affects Your Teeth
Most commonly, oral infection appears in two different forms. The first is tooth decay, and the second is gum disease.
The presence of tooth decay causes sensitivity due to the erosion of teeth. Bacterial plaque feed on sugar and starches and produced acid, demineralizing, or leeching the minerals, from your teeth, potentially resulting in cavities. The ongoing process of demineralization can lead to cavities that, left untreated, may extend from the enamel into the tooth’s core.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) causes the deterioration of gums. Infection eats away the bond between teeth and gums, working its way down the tooth instead of through the tooth. Receding gums, bleeding, and pus are all symptoms of gum disease; However, symptoms rarely show in the early stages. Gum disease affects 80% of people and is the leading cause of tooth loss in US adults.
Dr. Smith and the team at Pecan Tree Dental advise you to schedule an appointment if your toothache is a consistent pain for more than a few days and if the pain becomes unbearable, affecting your daily life.
About Your Grand Prairie Dentist
Dr. Quinn Smith and our team at Pecan Tree Dental are committed to serve you above all expectations. Call and schedule an appointment today if your toothache persists for more than a few days: (972) 262-5111
