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Dear Dr. Wilson... QUESTION: "Why does a toothache hurt so badly?" ANSWER: Have you ever broken a bone? Remember how they put you in a "cast" and told you to lay down for the first 24 hours. They told you to stay inactive to prevent swelling because if you have swelling inside of that rigid cast, look out, it is going to hurt! The dental pulp (or "nerve") is inside of a rigid tooth so when a deep cavity causes damage to the pulp - it swells, the swelling has no place to go and causes one of the most severe pains known.. toothache!QUESTION: "My teeth sometimes hurt at the gum line when I brush or drink something cold. What causes that?" ANSWER: The gums may "recede" or move down the tooth slightly and this uncovers some of the root of your tooth. The root of your tooth is not protected by the enamel layer like the top of your tooth (the "crown") is. This can result in sensitivity to cold, sweet. toothbrushing, etc. As long as your sensitivity is ‘tolerable’, we consider it harmless but for some folks it is very uncomfortable. For them, we have to put a protective coating over the root surface . Gum recession can be a result of Periodontitis (gum disease) so be sure you have this checked by your dentist. —Email me with your questions. I am dedicated to helping my patients understand Dentistry!QUESTION: "I notice some hard, bumpy things on the inside of my lower front teeth —what is that?" ANSWER: It is probably dental calculus (or "tartar"). Calculus is Latin for stone. It is a mineral deposit from your saliva that forms on your teeth. The backs of the lower front teeth are common areas for calculus because large saliva gland ducts open just behind your lower front teeth. If you can feel calculus on your teeth, get a check up right away so that you can prevent gum disease! QUESTION: My child is getting her first permanent tooth and it is coming in out of position, should I be concerned? ANSWER: This is a very common question from conscientious new parents. Usually, the child’s first permanent teeth are the lower front teeth. These teeth are highly visible and often will erupt into the mouth out of alignment. Not to worry mom & dad, it is common for teeth to erupt out of position but most of the time the tooth will straighten itself out all by itself. But, remember it is important to have your child’s teeth checked starting at age 4 and then every 6 months after that. If a problem arises with tooth alignment your dentist will be able to spot it for you. |
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