TOOTHACHES-PART II What Happens When I Go to the Dentist for a Toothache? When Should I See a Dentist About a Toothache? To treat your toothache, your dentist will first obtain your medical history and conduct a physical exam. He or she will ask you questions about the pain, such as when the pain started, how severe it is, where the pain is located, what makes the pain worse, and what makes it better. Your dentist will examine your mouth, teeth, gums, jaws, tongue, throat, sinuses, ear, nose, and neck. X-rays may be taken as well as other tests, depending on what your dentist suspects is causing your toothache. What Treatments Are Available for a Toothache? Treatment for a toothache depends on the cause. If a cavity is causing the toothache, your dentist will fill the cavity or possibly extract the tooth, if necessary. A root canal might be needed if the cause of the toothache is determined to be an infection of the tooth's nerve. Bacteria that have worked their way into the inner aspects of the tooth cause such an infection. An antibiotic may be prescribed if there is fever or swelling of the jaw. How can Toothaches Be Prevented? Since most toothaches are the result of tooth decay, following good oral hygiene practices consist of brushing regularly with a fluoride-containing toothpaste, flossing at least once daily, rinsing once or twice a day with an antiseptic mouthwash, and seeing your dentist twice a year for professional cleaning. In additional to these practices, eat foods low in sugar and ask your dentist about sealants and fluoride applications. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL1877520 TOOTHACHES-PART II What Happens When I Go to the Dentist for a Toothache? When Should I See a Dentist About a Toothache? To treat your toothache, your dentist will first obtain your medical history and conduct a physical exam. He or she will ask you questions about the pain, such as when the pain started, how severe it is, where the pain is located, what makes the pain worse, and what makes it better. Your dentist will examine your mouth, teeth, gums, jaws, tongue, throat, sinuses, ear, nose, and neck. X-rays may be taken as well as other tests, depending on what your dentist suspects is causing your toothache. What Treatments Are Available for a Toothache? Treatment for a toothache depends on the cause. If a cavity is causing the toothache, your dentist will fill the cavity or possibly extract the tooth, if necessary. A root canal might be needed if the cause of the toothache is determined to be an infection of the tooth's nerve. Bacteria that have worked their way into the inner aspects of the tooth cause such an infection. An antibiotic may be prescribed if there is fever or swelling of the jaw. How can Toothaches Be Prevented? Since most toothaches are the result of tooth decay, following good oral hygiene practices consist of brushing regularly with a fluoride-containing toothpaste, flossing at least once daily, rinsing once or twice a day with an antiseptic mouthwash, and seeing your dentist twice a year for professional cleaning. In additional to these practices, eat foods low in sugar and ask your dentist about sealants and fluoride applications. Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL1877520