Can dental nerve damage heal?
Anyone may experience tooth pain at some point. Sometimes, the pain is mild. And there are also instances when it keeps you awake.
Regardless of the severity of the pain, talk to your dentist about it. Nerve damage is one possible culprit. Your dentist can take a look at your mouth and rule out other potential causes.
What causes dental nerve damage?
Dental nerve damage can make your tooth extra sensitive. You may feel sudden discomfort when the tooth gets in contact with something cold or hot, or when the tooth is moved.
Nerve damage can be dental or pulpal.
- Dental sensitivity. This can affect not only a single tooth, but the entire mouth as well. The enamel can erode when it gets damaged, chipped, or cracked. This can expose the tooth nerves and make them sensitive to temperature changes. Several factors can cause dental sensitivity. This includes aggressive brushing, too much starchy and sugary food, and excessive use of whitening products.
- Pulpal sensitivity. You may also experience sensitivity if the nerves surrounding the dental pulp become damaged. Undergoing dental treatments, such as fillings, may also make your tooth sensitive temporarily. But let your dentist know if it continues or worsens so they can examine the area. Dental issues, such as teeth grinding, may also contribute to the sensitivity.
How will I know if a dental nerve is damaged?
Here are some signs that could indicate dental nerve damage.
- Pain and discomfort in the tooth area
- Tooth infection or decay
- Chipped, fractured, or broken tooth
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Getting dental procedure
Sensitivity can be widespread and not only focused on one tooth. Your dentist can recommend treatment, depending on their diagnosis.
Can dental nerve damage heal?
Nerve damage can be reversed or treated. But it won’t heal on its own.
The treatment for a damaged dental nerve varies. Your dentist removes the decay and fills the cavity if the issue is tooth decay.
A root canal is another procedure that can treat dental nerve damage. Your dentist removes damaged nerves and seals the tooth. They may also recommend a crown to strengthen the tooth.
Your dentist may recommend extraction if there’s too much damage for the tooth to be saved.
The recovery period depends on the treatment procedure. Molars may take longer to heal due to the biting forces they endure.
If dental nerve damage is untreated, the pain may subside, but the damage will still be there. It can spread to the remaining nerves until it reaches the bone.
Schedule an oral examination in North Battleford, Saskatchewan
See your dentist for an oral examination if you feel you or anyone in your family is experiencing recurring toothaches. It may be a sign of damaged dental nerves, and the issue can progress without proper treatment.
If you’re looking for a family dentist in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, contact us today at