What is your toothache telling you? Emergency care relieves painful symptoms and supports lasting health

An aching tooth can be a warning sign. That toothache may be a symptom of a potentially serious condition. Problems such as deep decay may require urgent treatment. Emergency dental services from your friends at Abel, Phan & Associates in Sterling, Virginia, may preserve your tooth. A severe infection can spread to other parts of the face and body if not caught early enough. Luckily, early intervention at Abel, Phan & Associates can help prevent this from happening 

The nature of the pain can provide some insights into what is going on and what may be the source of your discomfort. Of course, we will not know for sure what is responsible for your symptoms until after the tooth is evaluated. We can also take a closer look at other structures and tissues that may be contributing to your symptoms. For instance, unexplained pain can sometimes be rooted in another part of the mouth or face. A notable example of this is sinus problems, though they may be experienced as more of a dull aching and sensation of fullness in the upper jaw. 

Here are just a few of the ways that dental problems can manifest as pain and what we may recommend:

• Teeth sensitivity when in contact with heat or cold – The pain can worsen without treatment. All sorts of underlying issues may be responsible for sensitive teeth, from earlier-stage tooth decay or enamel erosion to loose or worn restorations and receding gums. We advise on good (not aggressive) oral care and products. Fillings and other treatments may be recommended as needed.
• Sharp or jarring pain – This may occur when biting down on hard or chewy foods. While it can be a sign of some of the problems mentioned above, more intense pain that comes and goes can also be symptomatic of deeper inflammation inside of the tooth. When the innermost pulp tissue is inflamed or infected, root canal therapy may be the only way to preserve the tooth.
• Lingering and severe pain that disrupts sleep, eating, and other functions – You should contact our dental team immediately as irreversible damage or infection to the pulp may have occurred. You may have an abscess when the pain is accompanied by swelling and noticeable puffy or blister-like areas on the gums. This infection can spread quickly if not treated. It will not go away on its own. 

Whatever the case may be, do not “sit” on pain. Both Dr. Chuong Phan and Dr. Anna Abel have the expertise to quickly resolve pain during emergency visits. From there, they can suggest options that eliminate the pain and are in the best interests of your smile, health, and well-being in the long run. 

Call Abel, Phan & Associates at (571) 450-9848 for prompt and trusted care in the Sterling, VA area. 

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