It’s possible that you could have nerve damage in your teeth without knowing it. Dental trauma from an accident or even a dental procedure may cause damage to the nerves, potentially leading to tooth pain.
Dental trauma treatment in Columbia, Maryland can help. If you think that you might have nerve damage in your teeth, learn more about the signs and symptoms to be aware of and contact Dr. Michael Hsu at Columbia Smiles at 410.690.4855 today.
What Is Nerve Damage?
Nerve damage, by definition, is damage to the nerves, which are responsible for transmitting signals between the body and the brain. This damage can occur anywhere in the nervous system, including in the teeth.
The damage can be caused by an injury, infection, or even dental procedures. When the nerves in your teeth are damaged, it can lead to pain, numbness, or tingling.
Signs of Nerve Damage
Dental pain is the most common sign of nerve damage in your teeth. In some cases, the pain might feel like sensitivity in one specific tooth. This might be the result of damage to the pulp of the tooth. Some of the causes of this kind of damage can include the following:
- Cracked, chipped, or broken teeth
- Tooth decay or infection
- Pressure due to grinding your teeth at night or clenching them throughout the day
- Damage from a recent filling or other procedure
Another pain you may experience is widespread and not localized to one tooth. Damage to the enamel of your teeth can cause the nerve endings to be exposed. Heat or cold can trigger pain when this happens. Some of the causes of this type of nerve damage can include overuse of whitening products or plaque buildup, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities.
An additional tooth pain you may experience could be caused by brushing your teeth too hard or having gone through gum surgery, which can expose the roots of the tooth.
If you experience any of the above types of pain, reach out to your dentist. In many cases, this nerve damage can be reversed. Your dentist can also tell you if the pain you are experiencing is related to dental trauma or from habits like brushing too hard or grinding your teeth.
Treatment for Nerve Damage
How can your dentist treat nerve damage in your teeth? The treatment will vary depending on the cause of the nerve damage. For example, if you have nerve damage due to tooth decay, your dentist will likely clean out the infected part of the tooth and fill the cavity. This is a very common procedure and should resolve any pain.
Another type of treatment for nerve damage is a root canal. This procedure is similar to a cavity filling. However, an endodontist will remove the infected material and seal the tooth. During a root canal, an endodontist removes the infected pulp from your tooth then seals it with gutta percha. You then return to your dentist for a permanent crown
At-Home Treatment for Nerve Damage
While damage from dental trauma like a broken or chipped tooth or dental procedure might be difficult to avoid, there are a few things that you can do at home to prevent and treat nerve damage.
Good oral hygiene habits can help you avoid tooth decay and infection. Decay happens when bacteria builds on the teeth, which eventually breaks down your enamel and leaves your nerves more vulnerable. The best oral hygiene routine will include:
- Brushing twice a day
- Flossing
- Using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash
- Visiting your dentist regularly
Make an appointment if you experience any of the above types of tooth pain. They will be able to diagnose and treat the issue and help you restore your teeth to full functionality.
Contact Columbia Smiles Today
At our dental practice, we offer cleanings, exams, and a variety of other services. To keep your teeth and gums in good shape, practice good oral hygiene habits and visit your dentist regularly. If you’re experiencing pain that you believe is caused by nerve damage, make an appointment to see our dentist today. Contact us at 410.690.4855 or visit us online to learn more.
