The tooth’s nerves are found in the tooth’s pulp, a soft tissue in the interior of the tooth. Located far below the hard surface of the teeth, called the enamel, these nerves are highly sensitive. While they’re typically protected by enamel and the other outside layers of the teeth, dental trauma may expose the nerves and cause pain. Hot or cold temperatures and even movement can stimulate the nerves in a painful way. If you’ve cracked, broken, or otherwise damaged a tooth, reach out to Dr. Michael Hsu at Columbia Smiles for dental trauma services. Left untreated, exposed nerves can be incredibly painful and are susceptible to infection.
Signs of Dental Nerve Damage
If you’re experiencing a toothache, nerve damage could be the culprit. Nerve damage can develop suddenly as the result of an injury or gradual enamel erosion. Even for mild pain, contacting your dentist is recommended, as the pain is unlikely to resolve itself. You may require more intensive treatment down the road if you don’t respond to the onset of nerve pain. What does nerve damage feel like? The signs of nerve damage include:
- A dull ache near the gum line
- Discomfort when eating
- Pain following exposure to hot or cold temperatures
- Acute pain targeting a single tooth
- Pain that radiates throughout the mouth
All tooth or gum pain is a reason to reach out to your dentist.
Causes of Dental Nerve Damage
Why does dental nerve pain develop? Damage to the nerves may be the result of several factors. First, if the nerves are exposed as a result of a fractured tooth, you’ll feel pain immediately. Sports injuries, automobile accidents, and falls are common culprits of dental trauma. You might also feel some nerve pain after certain dental procedures, such as fillings or wisdom tooth extractions.
Eroded enamel can also leave nerve endings vulnerable to external stimuli. Enamel may erode from at-home teeth whitening, which is why professional teeth whitening in your dentist’s office is recommended. Untreated cavities and receding gums can also contribute to enamel damage.
Treatment for Dental Nerve Pain
Dental nerve pain can be treated by a dentist or an endodontist, which is a dental specialist who treats issues relating to the tooth’s interior. One of the most common procedures to relieve pain relating to nerve damage is a root canal. During this procedure, damaged tissue is removed, the interior of the tooth is cleaned, and it’s filled with a sterile, sturdy material. Removing damaged nerve tissue does not impact the structure of your tooth. Your tooth will be fully functional, in addition future pain or infections will most likely be eliminated.
Fillings can also relieve pain when the nerve damage is related to a small cavity. This procedure can quickly be performed in your dentist’s office. Of course, prevention is important. Practicing good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for cleanings, can help you avoid damage to your enamel and possible nerve damage.
Dental Trauma Services at Columbia Smiles
Whether you’ve been involved in an accident, injury or are experiencing nerve pain related to damaged enamel, Columbia Smiles can help quickly and effectively resolve pain. We offer dental trauma services in our Howard County practice to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Led by Dr. Michael Hsu, our team will work to relieve your pain and help you get back to feeling like yourself. dentist nerve damage, Schedule an appointment by calling Columbia Smiles today at 410.690.4855 or reach out to our team online.
