Don’t Ignore A Toothache – Fast Appointments in Burton

Acting quickly may help to save an infected or damaged tooth.

Toothache is a relatively common problem that most of us will have probably experienced at least once in our life. Where a toothache is severe, there is usually no question that a dental appointment needs to be made. Indeed, when in severe pain, even the most dental phobic patient will often contact their dentist with barely a second thought.

The problem often arises when a toothache is ‘not too bad’ or ‘just a niggle’. Simply put, if a tooth feels this way then it is almost certain that something is not right. Whilst the discomfort may possibly go away after a short while, the likelihood is that the problem will flare up again, quite possibly much more painfully than before, unless treated.

Prompt dental treatment

At Mike Allen’s Dental Practice in Burton Upon Trent, we would encourage any patient who experiences a ‘minor’ dental issue to contact us right away. Particularly if you are in some discomfort, we will always try to see you the same day, or, where this is not possible, offer advice to keep you as comfortable as possible until we can.

Any discomfort is a sign that all is not well with the tooth and it will almost certainly need treating. In many cases, this involves no more than the simple removal of some dental decay and then filling the cavity with an amalgam or tooth coloured filling. Where pain has been caused by some physical damage to a tooth, such as a breakage from a fall, for example, a filling may be used, but, if a significant portion of the tooth has been lost, a dental crown or other more comprehensive restorative treatment may be required to restore the strength needed for normal use.

Infected tooth root

Sometimes, dental pain may indicate more than simple decay though, and, especially if severe, may indicate an infection of the root canals. This problem cannot be rectified by a simple filling and root canal therapy is needed. This involves accessing the root canals and removing the infected material which includes the nerves. The hollow canals are then cleaned,  filled and the tooth restored by attaching a crown.

This is not a treatment that should be feared, despite it’s unwarranted reputation for pain. You should feel no more discomfort than most other invasive procedures and is the only alternative to a tooth extraction when the canals have become infected. Whether your discomfort is minor or more significant, the best action to take is to call our Burton dental practice as early in the day as you possibly can. By doing so, you will increase the likelihood of being seen, by one of our dentists, the same day.

If you explain to our reception team that you are experiencing discomfort, they will try to prioritise a dental appointment for you. Please call Mike Allen’s Dental Practice on 01283 845345.