Severe Tooth Pain After Dental Visit: What to Do Next? - Dentistry

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Severe tooth pain after a dental visit can be a distressing experience, especially when you are in an unfamiliar area and relying on a new dentist. Based on your description, it seems that you underwent a dental procedure for a cavity that was deemed deep but not yet involving the nerve. The dentist placed a medication in the cavity to soothe the nerve and prescribed pain relief medication. However, after a couple of days, you are experiencing intense pain, which is concerning.


Understanding Your Situation
1. Pain After Dental Treatment: It is not uncommon to experience some discomfort after a dental procedure, especially if the cavity was deep. The pain can be due to inflammation of the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels) or irritation from the dental materials used. However, severe pain that feels like the nerve is "jumping" or throbbing could indicate that the pulp is becoming inflamed or infected.

2. Possible Causes of Severe Pain:
- Pulpitis: This is inflammation of the dental pulp, which can occur after dental work, especially if the cavity was deep. If the pulp becomes irreversibly inflamed, it may lead to a need for root canal treatment.

- Infection: If bacteria have entered the pulp chamber, it can lead to an infection, causing significant pain and swelling.

- Residual Sensitivity: Sometimes, the materials used in the cavity can cause sensitivity, especially if they are in contact with the nerve.

3. Gingival Pain: The pain you are experiencing in the surrounding gums could be due to inflammation or irritation from the dental procedure. If the edges of the filling are sharp, they can irritate the gums and tongue, contributing to discomfort.


What to Do Next
1. Contact Your Dentist: If you are still in the area, it is crucial to contact the dentist who performed the procedure. Explain your symptoms clearly, emphasizing the severity of the pain and any changes since your last visit. They may want to see you sooner than the scheduled follow-up.

2. Seek a Second Opinion: If you feel uncomfortable with the current dentist or if the pain is unbearable, it is entirely reasonable to seek a second opinion. You can find another dentist in the area who can assess your situation. It is important to communicate that you are in the middle of treatment, but your comfort and health should be the priority.

3. Pain Management: Continue to take the prescribed pain relief medication as directed. If it is not effective, inform your dentist or a new dentist about this. They may prescribe a stronger pain reliever or recommend over-the-counter options that could help.

4. Avoid Irritating the Area: Try to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and refrain from consuming very hot or cold foods and beverages, as these can exacerbate the pain.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as swelling, fever, or increased pain, and report these to your dentist.


Conclusion
Tooth pain after a dental procedure can be a sign of complications that need to be addressed promptly. Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek further evaluation either from your current dentist or a new one. Remember, your comfort and health are paramount, and you have the right to seek the best care possible. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself and ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment for your dental issues.