Tooth Pain: Causes and When to Consider Root Canal Treatment - Dentistry

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Tooth pain can be a complex issue, often indicating underlying dental problems that may require professional evaluation and treatment. Based on your description, it seems that your right lower tooth, which had a deep cavity treated two years ago, is now experiencing pain after you began using it more frequently due to discomfort in your left side. This shift in chewing habits can sometimes exacerbate issues in other teeth, especially if they were already compromised.

Initially, the pain you experienced was mild and intermittent, which can sometimes be associated with minor inflammation or sensitivity. However, the progression to increased pain, especially when biting or applying pressure, suggests that there may be more significant inflammation or even an infection present. The fact that your dentist did not find any cavities on the X-ray is a good sign, but it does not rule out other issues such as pulpitis (inflammation of the dental pulp) or periapical abscess (infection at the root tip).

The recommendation to observe the situation after a cleaning and the prescription of pain relief medication indicates that your dentist is taking a cautious approach. However, the worsening of your symptoms, particularly after rinsing with salt water, could indicate that the inflammation is increasing or that there is an infection that is becoming more pronounced. Saltwater rinses are generally soothing, but if there is an active infection, they can sometimes irritate the area further.

Given that you are now experiencing pain upon pressure and biting, it may be prudent to return to your dentist for further evaluation. If the pain persists or worsens, root canal treatment may indeed be necessary. Root canal therapy is typically indicated when the pulp of the tooth becomes inflamed or infected, which can occur due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures. The goal of the treatment is to remove the infected or damaged pulp, clean and disinfect the root canals, and seal them to prevent further infection.

In addition to the physical examination and X-rays, your dentist may consider additional diagnostic tools such as a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan if they suspect complex issues like hidden canals or fractures. If a root canal is performed, it is essential to follow up with a crown to protect the tooth from future damage.

In summary, while your initial symptoms may have seemed manageable, the progression of pain suggests that further investigation is warranted. It is crucial to communicate openly with your dentist about your symptoms, as timely intervention can prevent more severe complications. If you experience swelling, fever, or severe pain, seek immediate dental care, as these could be signs of a more serious infection requiring urgent treatment.