When Should You Contact the Dentist About a Toothache?

A toothache is a sign of a problem – one that should involve your dentist in Torrance, CA. If you have a toothache, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible.

Knowing what causes a toothache and what you can do about it can help you decide when it’s time to get treatment. Delaying treatment when you have a toothache will often make the problem worse. If you have a toothache, here’s what you need to know.

What Causes Toothaches?

A toothache can have many potential causes. Here are some of the reasons that people experience toothaches:

  • Cavity: A cavity is an area of tooth decay on the tooth. Cavities are often caused by a combination of factors including sugar consumption, poor oral hygiene habits, and bacteria in the mouth.
  • Dental infection: A dental infection is an infection inside a tooth. Dental infections can lead to severe pain. If the infection is not treated, it can spread to other parts of the body.
  • Dental injury: Some toothaches are caused by broken or cracked tooth enamel. Cracked and broken tooth enamel can lead to problems like a dental infection.

What To Do About A Toothache?

If you have a toothache, don’t wait to contact the dentist. Your dentist can determine the cause of your toothache and can quickly suggest a treatment plan to resolve the problem.

When Is a Toothache An Emergency?

Some toothaches are more urgent than others. If you’re in severe pain, this could mean that you have a dental infection or even a tooth abscess. These problems are dental emergencies.

If you don’t seek treatment quickly, the infection could spread to other parts of your body. In addition, an infected tooth that doesn’t get treatment may need extraction later on.

Contact Us for Toothache Information and Treatment

A toothache can be a sign of a serious problem, so don’t wait to get help. The dental professionals at Nishikawa Family Dentistry can provide a diagnosis and treatment to restore your teeth to good dental health. Call today to make your appointment for treatments like cavity fillings in Torrance, CA.

Dental Emergency

Are You a Good Candidate For Dental Implants?

When you make the smart decision to do something about your missing teeth, dental implants in  Torrance, CA may be on the top of your list of possible solutions. Highly effective and widely popular, dental implants are one of the top choices by both dental patients and dental professionals. But is this a solution that’s viable for you? A certain level of oral health and other factors play into whether or not you’d be a good candidate for dental implants. Let’s find out more.

Sufficient Jawbone Density

A strong jawbone is essential to support the implant. If there’s significant bone loss, a bone graft may be required before implantation. A dental evaluation will determine if your bone structure is adequate.

Healthy Gums

Gum disease can interfere with the success of dental implants. Healthy gums provide the necessary support, so any existing periodontal issues must be treated before proceeding with dental implant placement.

Good Overall Health

Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or certain autoimmune disorders, can affect healing and implant success. Smoking and excess alcohol consumption can also slow recovery and increase the risk of complications.

Commitment to Oral Hygiene

Proper care is essential for maintaining dental implants. Brushing, flossing and regular dental visits help ensure their long-term success. Those who struggle with oral hygiene or neglect dental care may not be ideal candidates for long-term success.

No Teeth Grinding Issues

A habit of teeth grinding can put stress on implants, leading to potential failure. If you grind your teeth, a dentist may recommend a night guard to protect both natural teeth and implants.

A thorough dental examination and medical history review by your Torrance, CA dentist will help determine if dental implants are right for you. Book an appointment today with Nishikawa Family Dentistry to learn more.