It’s common to assume that if your teeth don’t hurt, they must be fine. Unfortunately, this way of thinking can lead to serious problems going undetected until they require more extensive treatment. Think of dental pain as a late symptom rather than an early warning sign.
How Dental Disease Progresses
Tooth decay typically begins on the outer enamel layer, which contains no nerve endings. A cavity can grow quite large before it reaches the inner dentin layer, where you might experience sensitivity. By the time you notice pain, decay has often progressed significantly.
Similarly, early gum disease (gingivitis) causes bleeding but rarely produces pain. As the condition advances to periodontitis, bone loss can occur, and you still may not feel any discomfort.
When Pain Finally Appears
Tooth pain usually indicates that a dental problem has reached an advanced stage. For example:
- A severe toothache can indicate that decay has reached the nerve, which typically requires root canal treatment rather than a simple filling.
- A gum abscess is a sign that you already have an active infection that needs prompt treatment.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold can indicate exposed tooth roots from recession or enamel loss.
Your dentist in Clifton Hill is available to help you in an emergency, but waiting until symptoms appear means missing the opportunity for simpler, less invasive treatment.
A dental check can identify issues before they cause pain or visible damage. Your dentist uses tools like X-rays or intraoral cameras to detect decay between teeth or beneath existing fillings. A periodontal probe is an instrument that measures gum pocket depths to identify bone loss before it becomes severe.
Proactive Dental Prevention
Regular checks and cleans with your dentist in Clifton Hill every six months shifts your approach from reactive to preventive. Rather than waiting until something hurts, routine visits allow you to address small issues before they become painful or costly problems. If you would like to arrange an appointment for your next dental check-up, the team at Clifton Hill Dental is awaiting your call.