A toothache can indicate several things but is most often the sign of a heavily decayed tooth. Though many people believe that they should not see their dentist until they experience a toothache, this unfortunate situation is actually one of the final stages of tooth decay. Find out more about toothaches and why you shouldn’t ignore them with Dr. Michael Pugh at Artistic Dentistry in Huntsville, AL.

What can a toothache indicate?
The tooth is made up of three main parts: the hard enamel outer surface, the softer dentin under the enamel, and the pulp chamber which lies deep within the tooth. The inner pulp chamber houses the tooth’s soft tissues, including its nerves — the part of the tooth which feels pain. If the nerve becomes damaged, exposed, or infected by tooth decay, it causes a toothache.

When do I need to see my dentist for a toothache?
Though many people believe that a toothache is the push they need to schedule a dentist’s appointment, this is actually the end stage of a condition which can be easily treated in its earlier stages — before it becomes painful. The American Dental Association recommends that you see your dentist twice a year for examinations and preventative cleanings. These appointments help you avoid a toothache by removing the decay-causing substances from the teeth and ensuring that the decay does not eat its way through the tooth to infect the inner pulp chamber.

Toothache Treatments in Huntsville, AL
If you experience a toothache, chances are you have a heavily decayed tooth. In this case, a root canal — a dental treatment which removes the inner tissue from the tooth’s pulp chamber — becomes necessary. This process takes about an hour and is accompanied by a local anesthetic to ensure you do not feel any discomfort.

For more information on toothaches and when you should see your doctor, please contact Dr. Michael Pugh at Artistic Dentistry in Huntsville, AL. Call (256) 536-3386 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Pugh today!