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Differential Diagnosis of Oral Facial Pain
Endodontists are trained to differentiate between pain of endodontic origin and non-endodontic pain. Not all oral pain implies that root canal therapy is needed. Even though pain may mimic that of a "toothache", other possible causes of pain may be periodontal abscess, temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, cracked tooth syndrome, sinus infection, bruxism (grinding), atypical facial neuralgia, blocked salivary gland, cervical (neck) problems, etc.
In such cases, endodontic treatment is NOT necessary, since it will NOT resolve the problem. A referral to the proper medical treating physician will be made.
GUIDE TO TOOTH PAIN
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SYMPTOMS
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PROBLEM
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ACTION
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| Sensitivity
to hot or cold foods. |
Momentary discomfort to thermal sensations does not signal a serious problem. | Brush with a specific toothpaste for sensitive teeth. | ||
| Lingering pain after eating hot or cold foods. | Probable pulp damage caused by decay or trauma. | Visit your Dentist or Endodontist for root canal treatment. | ||
| Sensitivity to hot and cold foods after dental treatment. | Dental work can create inflammation of the nerves or pulp. This is usually temporary. | Wait 4-6 weeks, if symptoms persist visit your Dentist or Endodontist. | ||
| Sharp pain when chewing food. | Loose filling, decay, cracked tooth, or pulp damage. | Visit your Dentist or Endodontist. | ||
| Dull ache and pressure in teeth and jaw. | Grinding of teeth, sinus headach or pulp damage. | Try sinus medication; if symptoms persist visit your Dentist or Endodontist. | ||
| Constant pain, pressure, swelling and sensitivity to touch. | Abscessed tooth causing bone and gums to be infected. | Visit your Dentist or Endodontist for root canal treatment. | ||
| Chronic pain in head, neck or ear. | Pulp or nerve damage may cause pain in the head, neck and ear. | Visit your Dentist or Endodontist. |
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©Copyright 2006- Dental WebSmith, Inc. and Michanowicz Endodontic, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. Disclaimer: The information provided within is intended to help you better understand dental conditions and procedures. It is not meant to serve as delivery of medical or dental care. If you have specific questions or concerns, contact your health care provider.
