Why You Need to See an Emergency Dentist for a Numb Tooth

If you have a toothache, you might be wondering if you should see an emergency dentist. However, if your toothache goes away and the tooth feels numb, it is vital to see an emergency dentist as soon as possible. If your tooth has gone numb, this can mean that the infection from your toothache has spread to the root of the tooth. The numbness comes from the nerves in and around the teeth being damaged.

Causes of a numb tooth

There are several different causes that can result in a numb tooth for a patient. One of the main causes, however, is damage to the nerves around that area. If an infection in a tooth spreads to the root of the tooth, it can cause many problems. If the infection is allowed to continue to spread, then it can cause the entire tooth to die. This means that it will need to be removed.

Trauma to the tooth can also cause it to become numb. This trauma may be caused by an accident, an injury or simply biting down too hard. This is why it is important for individuals to use mouthguards during any physical activity. This can include sports, playing active games or even doing repairs around the house.

Teeth grinding can also cause trauma to the area. The tooth contains dentin. This brings nutrients and blood to the tooth. An injury or infection can cause a lack of sensation in that tooth.

Treatment for numb tooth

The good news is that an emergency dentist can treat a numb tooth. If this treatment happens early enough, the tooth can be saved. Often, a root canal is used to help the tooth. This type of treatment involves removing the dead pulp from inside the tooth.

After the dentist has removed all of the dead or infected pulp from inside the tooth, the dentist can fill it with a synthetic substance. This allows the tooth to remain strong. Sometimes, the dentist will also place a dental crown over the area. While this is not always necessary, this can offer further protection to the tooth.

There are some cases where the tooth cannot be saved. If this is the case, then a tooth extraction may be necessary. The emergency dentist will use tools to gently move the tooth back and forth until it loosens. The dentist can then extract the tooth. The good news is that there are many ways of replacing a missing tooth, including dental implants and bridges.

Choose an emergency dentist today

If your tooth is numb, there are ways it can be saved if you get intervention early enough. A root canal can save your tooth and help to prevent further infections. Sometimes, the dentist might also place a crown over the tooth. Visiting an emergency dentist early is the ideal way to prevent your tooth from having to be extracted.

Request an appointment here: https://riverfallsfamilydental.com or call River Falls Family Dental at (812) 962-7342 for an appointment in our New Albany office.

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