Toothaches and Extractions​

Understanding Different Types of Toothaches and Their Causes

Toothaches can vary greatly in terms of intensity, frequency, and underlying causes, and not all of them lead to extractions. Pulling a tooth is done as a last resort. At Comprehensive Dental Care in Henderson, we understand that each patient’s pain is unique, and our approach to diagnosing and treating toothaches is tailored to meet individual needs. Most tooth pain will fall into one of the following categories:

1. Sharp, Intermittent Pain

Sharp, intermittent tooth pain often suggests that there may be a problem such as a cracked tooth, a loose filling, or an exposed root surface. These issues can sometimes be triggered or worsened by specific stimuli, such as biting into something very hard or exposing the tooth to extreme temperatures. In our Henderson clinic, we utilize precise diagnostic tools to identify the exact cause and provide appropriate treatments, which may include filling replacements or the application of a dental crown to protect the cracked tooth.

2. Throbbing, Persistent Pain

A continuous throbbing pain in the teeth is often an indicator of an infection or abscess. This type of pain may also be accompanied by swelling of the gum area and face, a foul taste in the mouth, or fever. These symptoms require immediate attention, and patients experiencing these should visit our Henderson location as soon as possible. Treatment options may include antibiotics to address the infection and possibly a root canal treatment to save the affected tooth.

3. Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

When experiencing sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages, it often points to either gum recession that exposes the roots of your teeth or enamel erosion, which makes the teeth more vulnerable to temperature changes. At Comprehensive Dental Care, we assess the extent of the damage and can offer solutions such as fluoride treatments or dental sealants to reduce sensitivity and protect your teeth.

4. Dull Ache and Pressure

A dull ache and pressure in the jaw can be related to issues such as bruxism (teeth grinding) or TMJ disorders. These problems often require more than just treatment for the teeth themselves; they need a comprehensive approach that may include mouth guards to prevent grinding or therapy and exercises to address TMJ issues. Our skilled team is experienced in creating customized treatment plans that address the specific reasons behind your toothache.

5. Pain When Chewing

Pain upon chewing can be indicative of either a tooth decay issue or a damaged filling. Decayed areas on the teeth create weak spots that are sensitive to pressure from chewing. Our approach involves removing decay and restoring the tooth with high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting relief and functionality.

Tooth Extractions at Comprehensive Dental Care

A tooth extraction means you need to have a tooth removed, usually because of disease, trauma, or crowding. Extracting a tooth is a very simple, straightforward procedure. It usually takes longer to anesthetize the area than the actual procedure.

Here are some of the reasons people need to have a tooth removed:

• Severe Tooth Decay: If a tooth is severely decayed and cannot be restored, it may need to be extracted.
• Fractured Teeth: Some teeth crack or break and become unrestorable and need to be extracted.
• Impacted Wisdom: Wisdom teeth are rarely kept in a mouth. They are typically removed because they are causing issues to the other teeth.
• Teeth Crowding: To give your smile room to flourish, an extraction might be proposed. This is usually under the purview of an Orthodontist.
• Serious Periodontal Gum Disease: When many teeth are affected by severe periodontal gum disease, the optimal solution is to remove teeth and clean up the remaining infection.
• Dental Trauma: Different instances of dental trauma may cause teeth to be extracted. This is judged on a case-by-case basis.

The Extraction Procedure

At our dental practice, we understand that having a tooth removed can feel a bit daunting. Rest assured, we prioritize your comfort every step of the way. Here’s what to expect in a simple, stress-free manner:

To start, we’ll apply a gentle local anesthetic to ensure the area around your tooth is completely numb and you’re as comfortable as possible. Your experienced dentist uses special tools to carefully wiggle the tooth free with the utmost care and minimal discomfort.

In some instances, particularly when a tooth hasn’t fully emerged or is significantly damaged, the dentist may need to make a tiny, clean cut in the gum to reach the tooth. This process is quite routine and something they handle with precision and care.

After your tooth has been successfully and gently removed, we cleanse the empty socket to keep it clean and infection-free. In certain cases, to maintain the strength of your jawbone and prepare for future tooth replacement options, a dental bone graft might be recommended.

To support and speed up the healing process, we might place a few small stitches — think of it as a tiny hug for your gum, helping it recover swiftly and smoothly.

Contact Us to Learn More

The team at our practice in Henderson is committed to ensuring you feel informed, at ease, and cared for throughout this procedure. If you have any concerns or questions, we’re here to answer them and provide the peace of mind you deserve.