Is tooth sensitivity caused by exposed nerves?

Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
Updated on December 23, 2024
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When a patient has dental caries, it can cause some damage to the gum tissue, resulting in the gums being in a state of acute inflammation. At this time, the gums may be particularly sensitive, especially to hot and cold stimuli, but this does not necessarily mean that the nerves in the gums are exposed. It is recommended that patients pay attention to a light diet and avoid overly hot or spicy foods, as well as hard foods that may irritate the sensitive gum tissue, leading to discomfort. Therefore, patients are advised to maintain a light diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and drink plenty of water. Additionally, it is crucial for patients to develop healthy oral hygiene habits. It is recommended that patients visit the hospital in a timely manner for consultation, and receive specific treatment plans based on the extent of the damage caused by the caries.

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Written by Li Bao Hua
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What should I do about permanent tooth decay?

Permanent tooth decay refers to the decay that occurs in children's newly emerged permanent teeth or already replaced permanent teeth. Once decay occurs in a permanent tooth, it is necessary to fill the tooth as soon as possible. Decay is removed by drilling out the decayed hard tissue of the tooth. After removal, direct pulp capping treatment for the tooth is performed. If the decay in the permanent tooth is deep and has reached the tooth nerve, pulp treatment is needed. Vital pulpotomy can be used to retain the root pulp of the root part to promote further development of the tooth root. If the apex of the root has already formed in the permanent tooth and decay occurs, and the tooth nerve cannot be preserved, we can directly proceed with root canal treatment.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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If a cavity is not thoroughly cleaned before being filled, what will happen?

When a patient has severe dental caries and undergoes filling, if the decay is not completely removed before filling, it may lead to reinfection and residual decay, continuing to cause inflammation. Therefore, it is recommended that the decay be completely removed before filling. In such cases, it is generally safe for patients to seek treatment at a formal dental hospital. Official hospitals adhere to strict standards, effectively cleaning the affected area for filling and repair. Therefore, patients need not be overly anxious; this type of procedure is quite common in dentistry. Patients are advised to maintain good oral hygiene in daily life and seek timely medical attention when dental caries occur.

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Written by Fang Xiao
Dentistry
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What should I do if my tooth hurts the day after getting a cavity filled?

Toothache the day after grinding a cavity-ridden tooth may be due to the cavity being deep and close to the pulp chamber. The pain could be caused by not placing a protective pulp material at the bottom of the cavity during the dental filling. It is recommended to remove the filling material and then place a layer of protective pulp material at the bottom of the cavity, and to observe further. The pain experienced the day after grinding may be due to injury during the grinding process or from exposure to very cold or hot substances, which can stimulate the nerves and cause pain. It could also be due to improper handling during the procedure. If the pain is mild and does not affect eating, it generally is not a serious problem. However, if the pain is severe, it is advisable to visit the dental department of a regular hospital for a re-examination. During treatment, avoid spicy, irritating, and very hard foods, and eat more fresh vegetables and fruits.

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Written by Li Bao Hua
Dentistry
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How to prevent dental caries

Cavities are a destructive disease caused by bacterial infection of the hard tissues of the teeth. The first step in preventing cavities is to understand the causes and implement basic prevention measures. Firstly, the condition is associated with bacterial infection, and controlling dental plaque through effective brushing can help. Data shows that dental plaque can easily reattach to teeth within eight hours after brushing. Therefore, it is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and evening. Some people are accustomed to brushing at night and just rinsing in the morning; however, this practice is incorrect as effective brushing helps control the accumulation of dental plaque. Secondly, diet plays a role, with sugary foods, especially sucrose, being particularly conducive to cavities. It is advisable to reduce the intake and frequency of sugar consumption. Additionally, effectively supplementing calcium can help prevent inherent enamel hypoplasia of the teeth. If the mother experiences calcium deficiency during pregnancy, there is also a higher risk of cavities.

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Written by Li Bao Hua
Dentistry
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The concept of dental caries

Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are caused by bacterial infection that damages the hard tissues of the teeth. Once cavities occur, it is essential to intervene with dental treatment as soon as possible. Strictly speaking, cavities represent a bacterial infection caused by the failure to remove food residues timely after eating. Bacteria break down glucose, producing lactic acid, which causes demineralization of the teeth. Once cavities occur, it is crucial to undergo dental filling treatment promptly, commonly referred to as dental restoration. If the progression of decay is not promptly halted, it can lead to further complications over time, including pulpitis which causes toothache or night pain, pain during sleep intense enough to wake one from sleep, and in severe cases, facial swelling.