That nagging throb in your jaw, the sharp pain when you sip a cold drink, or the dull, persistent ache in a tooth—it’s easy to dismiss tooth pain as a minor annoyance. Many people hope it will simply go away on its own. While some minor sensitivity is temporary, a consistent toothache is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. Ignoring it can lead to more complex and costly problems down the road.
At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we understand that tooth pain can be alarming. The key is to address it promptly to determine the cause and prevent further complications.
What Could Your Toothache Mean?
A toothache can stem from various issues, ranging from simple to serious. Some common causes include:
- Cavities: The most frequent culprit, cavities are holes in your teeth caused by decay. If left untreated, they can deepen, reaching the sensitive inner pulp and causing significant pain.
- Gum Disease: Gingivitis or more advanced periodontitis can cause gums to become inflamed and pull away from the teeth, exposing sensitive roots and leading to discomfort.
- Dental Abscess: This is a serious infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. An abscess is a pocket of pus that can cause severe, throbbing pain and requires immediate dental attention.
- Cracked Tooth: A fracture in a tooth, sometimes invisible to the naked eye, can expose the nerve and cause sharp pain, especially when chewing.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Clenching or grinding your teeth, often during sleep, can wear down enamel and lead to jaw pain and tooth sensitivity.
While you might not be able to diagnose the issue yourself, the message is clear: persistent tooth pain is not normal and should be evaluated by a professional.
The Importance of Regular Checkups
The best way to handle a toothache is to prevent one from ever starting. This is where regular dental checkups play a crucial role. Routine visits with Dr. Chris Hammond allow our team to catch potential problems early, long before they become painful emergencies.
Think of it as proactive care for your smile. During a checkup, we perform professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup that you can’t remove at home. We also conduct thorough examinations and use imaging to spot signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues when they are small and easily treatable.
Save Time, Money, and Stress in the Long Run
Visiting your Provo dentist for regular checkups might seem like another appointment to fit into your busy schedule, but it’s an investment that pays off. Treating a small cavity is far quicker, less invasive, and more affordable than performing a root canal or extracting a severely infected tooth. By staying ahead of dental problems, you save yourself from future pain, lengthy procedures, and unexpected expenses.
Don’t wait for a toothache to tell you something is wrong. Take control of your oral health today.
Schedule Your Visit with Dr. Hammond
If you are experiencing tooth pain or are due for a checkup, our team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chris Hammond and ensure your smile stays healthy, strong, and pain-free.
Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:
801-374-0070
Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):
3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604
