Tooth Pain Diagnosis
Around 22% of Americans experience tooth pain — clinically known as odontogenic pain — at some point during their lives. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, contact Robert Scott Nance, D.D.S., M.S., P.A.. Dr. Nance provides expert exams to identify the cause of your tooth pain and customized treatments to relieve your pain and protect your dental health. You don’t have to put up with tooth pain in Hickory NC or Statesville NC, call Dr. Nance or schedule a consultation online today.
Why Toothaches Can Be Complicated
Tooth pain isn’t always straightforward. Two people can have very different symptoms even if the underlying issue is similar. Common causes include:
- Cavities or decay that reach the inner layers of the tooth
- Cracks or fractures that allow bacteria inside
- Inflamed or infected pulp tissue
- Pressure from teeth grinding or jaw clenching
- Sinus issues or referred pain from nearby teeth
Because the source isn’t always obvious, professional diagnosis is essential.
How Endodontists Diagnose Tooth Pain
Endodontists specialize in problems inside the tooth and its roots, which makes them uniquely qualified to uncover hidden causes of pain. They use tools and techniques such as:
- Digital X-rays and 3D scans to see inside the tooth and surrounding bone
- Thermal or electric pulp testing to evaluate nerve response
- Bite and percussion testing to check for cracks or infection
- Visual exams with microscopes to detect even the smallest issues
This thorough process allows your endodontist to pinpoint the exact problem and recommend the most effective treatment.
When To Seek Professional Help
Some toothaches may fade temporarily, but ongoing or severe pain almost always means something deeper is happening. Signs you shouldn’t ignore include:
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain when chewing or applying pressure
- Swelling around the gums or jaw
- Tooth discoloration or darkening
- Recurring discomfort that comes back after a few days
The earlier a diagnosis is made, the better the chance of saving the tooth.
Treatment After Diagnosis
Once the source of your pain is identified, your endodontist will explain the options clearly. These may include:
- Root canal therapy to remove infection and preserve the tooth
- Retreatment if a previous root canal didn’t heal fully
- Endodontic surgery for infection near the root tip
- Restorative care, like crowns or fillings, after stabilization
Every plan is designed around one main goal: ending your pain while keeping your natural tooth intact.
Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain—Get Answers Now
Toothaches are more than an inconvenience; they’re a signal that something needs attention. With expert diagnosis, you’ll know exactly what’s wrong and how to fix it.
If you’re struggling with tooth pain, contact us today to schedule your appointment in Hickory NC and Statesville NC and get lasting relief.
Tooth Pain Q & A
What causes tooth pain?
Tooth pain — also referred to as odontogenic pain — has many potential causes. The most common cause is inflammation of your dental pulp due to tooth decay. Complications of periodontal (gum) disease, such as gum recession and swelling, are the second most common cause of dental pain. Other potential causes of tooth pain include:
- Tooth enamel erosion
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Recent dental treatments like fillings or root canals
You might even suffer from tooth pain if you have a sinus infection that causes severe swelling and compresses your dental nerves.
