Toothaches can be very painful, and when that pain subsides, it can understandably bring tremendous relief. Once there’s no pain to think about, you might assume that the problem has resolved itself. The truth is that a pain-free tooth doesn’t always mean the issue is gone. In fact, it may be imperative that you go to your dentist for a root canal.
If you’re wondering why that is, continue reading. Sometimes the lack of pain is a signal of something worse.
The Root of the Problem
Before you decide whether a root canal is still necessary, you should understand why toothaches occur in the first place. Typically, tooth pain arises from an infection or inflammation in the pulp of the tooth. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, and when it becomes compromised, it can lead to intense pain.
Healing or Deception?
When the pain suddenly disappears, it may be one of two scenarios:
Spontaneous Healing – In some cases, a tooth infection might resolve on its own as your body’s immune system fights off the bacteria causing the issue. The pain disappears as the infection is brought under control. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that the problem is entirely gone.
Nerve Damage – On the flip side, a sudden lessening of pain could signify that the nerves inside the tooth have been damaged or have died. The nerves are responsible for transmitting pain signals, and when they are injured, the discomfort may suddenly stop. Even so, in this scenario, the underlying issue remains.
Should I Go To The Dentist?
So, what should you do if your toothache vanishes? Consult with your dentist. They will examine your tooth, take X-rays, and determine the cause of the pain and its disappearance. To determine this, they will consider various factors, such as the condition of the tooth, signs of infection, and the overall health of your mouth.
Ignoring a tooth that was once in pain but is now pain-free can have serious consequences. Even if the pain has disappeared, the underlying infection or damage can continue to progress. This may lead to the spread of infection, an abscess, or even the loss of the tooth.
Dental issues can be tricky, and professional evaluation is the key to ensuring your oral health remains intact. So, if your toothache disappears, reach out to your dentist immediately to address the underlying problem and secure a pain-free, healthy smile.
About the Author
Dr Megan McInnis is a talented and professional dentist with a passion for helping patients get rid of pain and discomfort. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Texas A&M Health Science Center Baylor College of Dentistry. Since then, Dr. McInnis has continued her education through multiple professional organizations to provide even better care. To schedule a root canal consultation at RiverPlace Dental, call (503) 761-1414 or visit the website to learn more.