Teeth can experience discomfort for a wide variety of reasons such as stress, injury, thin enamel, exposure to hot and cold, and oral infections, and the best way to deal with the issue greatly depends on what causes it. If you experience pain in your upper back teeth, it may be caused by issues such as an untreated dental infection or inflammation of the sinuses. Here’s how to tell if your molar discomfort warrants a visit to your emergency dentist.
For Your Tooth’s Health Fear if Its Pain Is Throbbing and Severe
Tooth decay begins as a cavity, which is a destructive infection of the enamel that will only get worse unless it is treated by a dentist. If allowed to progress for too long, the infection will breach the outer layers of the tooth and reach the pulp at the center. As the pulp tissue becomes infected, the nerve endings it contains will begin sending pain signals to the brain. The result is a throbbing, agonizing toothache that requires the immediate attention of an emergency dentist to prevent tooth loss.
If Your Discomfort Is Sore and Dull, the ENT May Be Worth a Call
The human face contains six sinuses, which are small caverns positioned around the nasal structures that serve to cool and filter the air as it is inhaled. If the tissues lining the sinuses become inflamed, it may stress the bone structure supporting the upper molars, resulting in a dull, achy pain. Infections and other issues that can lead to sinus inflammation may be best addressed by an ENT or another respiratory specialist.
How Can I Prevent Toothaches?
Excellent oral hygiene is the best way to prevent cavities, and it may also reduce the likelihood of infections that can affect the airway and cause the sinuses to become inflamed. To keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy, brush and floss every day while using antibacterial mouthwash regularly. It’s also essential to see your dentist every six months for routine exams and cleanings so they can monitor your oral health and address any problems in their early stages.
About the Author
Dr. Craig R. Harder earned his dental degree at Creighton University and has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education courses. He is a contributing author for Dental Economics and is certified in Invisalign. His office in Moses Lake offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned about tooth pain, contact his office online or dial (509) 765-4351.