It’s possible that you could have nerve damage in your teeth and not know it. Dental trauma from an accident or even a dental procedure can cause damage to the nerves which can lead to pain. If you think that you might have nerve damage in your teeth, learn more about the signs and symptoms to look out for and contact Columbia Smiles in Columbia, MD today.
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 kind of pain that you might experience is more 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.
Finally, you might experience nerve pain in your teeth if you brush your teeth too hard or have 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.
One other 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 more of the pulp from your tooth than they would when filling a simple cavity.
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 up on the teeth, which will eventually break down your enamel and leave your nerves more vulnerable. By brushing twice a day, flossing, and using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash, you can protect your teeth from bacteria and plaque. Visit your dentist regularly and 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.
