How do I know if I Need a Root Canal?

By Mina Levi, DDS, 03/12/2015

Tooth pain is something that almost everyone will experience in their lifetime, whether it’s caused from dental decay, gum problems, trauma or another cause. Sometimes this tooth pain can mean that you need a root canal, which is the removal of the root or nerve of the tooth by an endodontist. In order to know when this is the case, Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS discusses four signs and reasons that you may need a root canal.

1. Sharp, throbbing pain. Sharp, unbearable or throbbing pain coming from a tooth that is enough to wake you up at night is a definite sign that you need to have a root canal done. If you have just had a dental procedure, and your pain is more of an ache (even if it is a high level ache), this is not necessarily a sign of root canal necessity. An achey pain is usually a reaction of the tooth to having been worked on, the gums responding to the area where the anesthetic was administered, or the bite needs to be adjusted. Do not panic if you are having this type of pain. Even if you are having throbbing or sharp pain, do not panic, simply call your San Francisco Dentist for an appointment to confirm that there is a need for a root canal and they will refer you to an endodontist.

2. Discolored tooth. A discolored tooth usually occurs when the tooth has experienced some sort of trauma and the tooth or nerve has died. In this case when the nerve is dead, it needs to be removed from the tooth immediately via root canal and the tooth will need to be restored with a crown. If the dead nerve remains in the tooth, the tooth will become brittle and will easily break. A severely broken tooth will need to be extracted and replaced with a denture, bridge or implant, which is a whole new set of procedures.

3. Tooth abscess. An abscessed tooth occurs when there is an infection in the root or nerve of the tooth. This infection, when not taken care of, will cause the tooth to die. A root canal will need to be performed in order to save the tooth. If the infection progresses, many complications can arise including the loss of the tooth.

4. Deep dental decay. When dental decay progresses deeply into the tooth, it can expose the nerve of the tooth and cause incredible pain and infection. In order to avoid this and avoid the need for a root canal, visit your San Francisco Dentist regularly for exams so that dental decay can be caught and treated before it progresses to the nerve of the tooth.

 

If you have questions regarding root canals, the process of a root canal, or if you are experiencing pain you believe needs to be treated with a root canal, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066

 

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, root canal, root canal San Francisco, endodontist San Francisco, endodontics San Francisco, nerve pain, tooth pain, tooth throbbing, throbbing pain, sharp pain, sharp tooth pain, throbbing tooth pain, severe tooth pain, severe pain, dental decay, root infection, tooth infection, tooth abscess, discolored tooth, deep dental decay, nerve pain

Relieving Toothaches on the Fly

Relieving Toothaches on the Fly

By Mina Levi, DDS, 02/05/2015

In honor of National Toothache Day coming up on February 9^th, we wanted to talk about toothaches and that pang of fear that we feel if we start to get a toothache when we are on vacation or somewhere where we cannot see our Dentist. In this article, Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS discusses toothaches, possible causes, and how to potentially relieve some pain if you are in a bind to hold you over until you can visit your San Francisco Dentist.

What is a toothache?

This may sound like a silly question; a toothache is a pain in your tooth, right? Yes, however, there are many different types of toothaches that mean different things. For example, a constant, throbbing pain that wakes you up from your sleep may be a nerve issue/infection and you may need a root canal. A pain when you bite down on food may be an issue with the occlusion or the contacts between your teeth and can be easily fixed with a slight adjustment. No matter what the pain is or how intense it is, it is important to never ignore the toothache or brush it off. Something that could have been fixed in 5 minutes could turn into something that needs a root canal or needs the tooth to be extracted if it is not attended to in a timely manner.

Possible causes of toothaches?

As mentioned above, there are many reasons why a person would be having pain in their tooth or jaw area. Causes include infection, trauma, dental cavities, and occlusion issues.

How to relieve toothache pain when getting to a dentist is not an option:

As a disclaimer, Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS wants patients to know that every person’s anatomy and experience are different. Tips that can work for one person may not work for the next person. These are just tips that can maybe give the patient some relief before having the tooth checked out. We always suggest seeing a dentist as soon as possible when you are having tooth pain.

1. Aspirin. Taking aspirin at the recommended dosage throughout the day will help relieve some of the pain symptoms you may be having, but will not treat the cause.

2. Anbesol. Anbesol is a liquid pain reliever that can be applied directly to the teeth/gums to numb the area.

3. Avoid hot and cold drinks. Sometimes tooth pain comes from a wearing down of the enamel that exposes the dentin underneath. By avoiding hot and cold drinks, you will not be putting any extra stress on that area and it will stay relatively calm until it can be sealed.

4. Oil pulling. Although not scientifically proven, oil pulling has been seen to have some pain relieving effects. See our article about oil pulling here.

In an emergency – always see a dentist! Even if it is in another country, if you need treatment, get the treatment. Just make sure that they are up to date on health codes and wear protective gloves. If you have any questions about having a toothache on vacation or if you are planning a trip and need an opinion on some dull tooth pain you are having now, visit Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, tooth pain, toothache, strong pain, strong tooth pain, toothache dentist, toothache dentist San Francisco, emergency dentist, emergency dentist San Francisco, root canal, enamel, dental cavities, occlusion, adjustments, dental office visit, vacation, tooth pain on vacation, remedies for tooth pain, aspirin, pain reliever, foreign dentist, pain relief, tooth pain relief, quick tooth pain relief

Why Would My Tooth Hurt After a Root Canal?

Why Would My Tooth Hurt After a Root Canal?

By Mina Levi, DDS, 01/08/2015

At the San Francisco dental office of Mina Levi, DDS, we refer a number of patients to endodontists if there is nerve pain that requires a root canal. After a root canal, the root is gone; so many people think that there should be absolutely no pain after a root canal, which sometimes is not the case. In this article, Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS explains what a root canal is and why someone may have pain after a root canal is performed.

What is a root canal?

Inside of a tooth, under the white enamel part and under the next  hard layer called dentin, there is a soft tissue which is the pulp of the tooth. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. In a fully developed tooth, the tooth can survive without the pulp because the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it. When the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, caused by deep decay, repeated dental procedures, faulty crowns, crack in the tooth, etc, then endodontic treatment may be necessary to remove it. If the pulp infection is left untreated, it can cause pain or lead to an abscess. This pain is a sign that the dentist uses to decide if the tooth will need a root canal or not.

A root canal removes the infected pulp and the inside of the tooth is cleaned out and disinfected, then filled and sealed with a rubbery material. After this, the tooth is restored with a crown or filling for protection. After the tooth is restored, the tooth continues to function like it did before.

What would cause pain after a root canal?

There are a number of possible causes of pain after the completion of a root canal. After a root canal is completed no living pulp tissue remains inside the tooth, but nerve endings remain in the ligaments that attach the tooth to the surrounding bone. These ligaments have nerve fiber associated with them that can feel pain.

Another cause could be inflammation of the periapical tissues post root canal. This inflammation may be due to extruded sealer or “over instrumentation” during the endodontic procedure. Sometimes the root canal files go past the apical terminus and can either inject some debris periapically or just damage the ligaments. This inflammation usually resolves by itself given enough time.

Another source of post root canal discomfort is a high bite and this can easily be corrected by a dentist. If a patient bites down, with no food in their mouth and their root canalled tooth hurts, then the bite should be adjusted.

Other possible causes of pain are a persistent infection or a root fracture. If a root canal is completed, but an infection still is present around the periapical area then a retreatment may be indicated especially if significant time has gone by without a resolution of the infection.

If you have tooth pain or think you require a root canal, or if you are having post-root canal pain, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: San Francisco Dentist, root canal, root canal pain, root canal dentist, endodontics, endodontist, endodontic treatment, endo, pulp, dentin, enamel, tooth structure, inflammation, infection, pulp infection, root infection, pain, tooth pain, achy pain

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive and What Can I do About it?

Why are my Teeth Sensitive and What Can I do about it?

By Mina Levi, DDS, 11/20/2014

When your teeth are “sensitive”, you can feel a pain when you breathe in cold air, or when you eat or drink anything cold or hot. Tooth sensitivity is caused by the movement of fluid located in the layer of tissue of the tooth beneath the hard enamel, which results in nerve irritation. When the hard enamel is worn down or the gums have receded, this area can be exposed, causing the sensitivity. This week, Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS discusses tooth sensitivity and treatment options for making this better.

Is tooth sensitivity a common condition?

Yes, about 40 million people suffer from having sensitive teeth.

How can I avoid sensitive teeth?

The first tip to avoiding sensitive teeth is to try and avoid gum recession condition, which can be caused by brushing the teeth too hard in a side to side motion. Also, avoid using abrasive toothpastes like whitening toothpaste that can aggravate the condition.

What can I do about my sensitive teeth?

Tooth sensitivity can be reduced by using desensitizing toothpaste, and having Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS apply sealants and other desensitizing/filling materials. Avoid habits such as consumption of acid-containing foods and soda throughout the day. Avoid using a hard bristled toothbrush or brushing your teeth too hard.

When should I see the dentist?

If one or more teeth are highly sensitive for a period of a few days and reacts to hot and cold temperatures, then call the dentist and set up an appointment so that San Francisco Dentist Mina Levi DDS can evaluate the sensitivity and prescribe the best method of alleviate the pain.

What can the dentist do about the sensitivity?

The Dentist San Francisco can treat hypersensitivity in multiple ways, including office treatments and home products for patients to use. The dentist may seal the areas of exposed dentin or apply a fluoride gel over the tops of the teeth. The dentist may also prescribe a fluoride gel for home use or an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste containing fluoride.

 If you have sensitive teeth or have questions regarding tooth sensitivity, visit San Francisco Dentist Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, teeth, teeth sensitivity, sensitive teeth, hypersensitivity, sensitivity, sensitive, sensitive to hot and cold, fluoride, fluoride varnish, desensitizing toothpaste

Having a Toothache That's Not a Toothache?

Having a Toothache That's Not a Toothache?

By Mina Levi, DDS, 08/07/2014

At the dental office of Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS in the heart of Union Square, we see a number of interesting and educational dental cases. These cases can serve as learning models in order for patients to become educated about some of the symptoms they may be having, how to treat these symptoms, or what to do to prevent certain situations from occurring. In this article, we discuss a case of a toothache that a patient had that ended up not being caused by a tooth at all.

 

A 49 year old female A.M. saw Dentist Mina Levi DDS in San Francisco as an emergency due to severe pain. It extended to the ear and even radiated to her neck. She was certain that the back most tooth, her second molar, was the culprit.

Dr. Mina Levi examined the tooth. It had a large filling, but there was no evidence of decay or a fracture. The Dentist San Francisco examined all the other teeth on the right side of both jaws. They responded normally to temperature and percussion tests (where Dr. Mina Levi will tap each tooth to determine if the surrounding ligament and bone are inflamed). X-rays of the teeth revealed no evidence of decay or infection.

Dr. Mina Levi then palpated (using her finger to exert mild pressure) around the tooth, and there was no pain. Palpating the muscles of the right Temporomandibular Joint ("T.M.J.) caused SEVERE pain. The dentist asked the patient if she was aware of clenching or grinding her teeth. She said that she was aware that she clenched her teeth, and that she hasn't worn her night guard lately. She also mentioned that she was very anxious lately.

The patient was reassured that she did not need endodontic ("root canal") therapy. Her pain was due to muscle spasms of her T.M.J. and she was referred out to a specialist who  prescribed muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory medications. She received also a Botox treatment for her muscle pain. Dr. Mina Levi made a night guard for the patient and advised her to start wearing it every night.

The T.M.J. muscles are just in front of, below and above the ear. So, it's easy to understand how the pain radiated to her ear. But, how, you may wonder, did they cause neck pain?

 

Think of a fine Swiss watch. Each part is carefully calibrated to work in harmony with every other part. If just one part malfunctions (or is slightly "off,") the balance and harmony of the entire system is disrupted. So it is with the muscles of the head and neck. Grinding and clenching of the teeth irritates the T.M.J. muscles. This can cause slight changes in the person's posture. These postural changes, however slight, cause straining of the neck muscles and results in pain. So, you see, proper dental diagnosis requires understanding not just of the teeth, but of the fine-tuned, complex relationship of the oral cavity to the rest of the body.

If you are experiencing neck or jaw pain, or have toothache-like symptoms and would like to discuss TMJ and treatment options, visit Dentist San Francisco Mina Levi, DDS on the web at www.minalevidds.com or give us a call at (415) 513-5066.

Topics: Dentist San Francisco, TMJ, TMJ San Francisco, toothache, toothache pain, tooth pain, jaw pain, neck pain, neck pain San Francisco, jaw issues, clenching at night, grinding at night, clenching and grinding the teeth, night guard, night guards San Francisco, grinding teeth, mouth guards, mouth guards for grinding, TMJ dentist San Francisco, clicking jaw, popping jaw

 

What You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth

What You Need to Know About Wisdom Teeth

By Mina Levi, DDS 03/20/2014

When your wisdom teeth grow in properly, they are just like all of your other teeth and help in the act of chewing. However, most of the time they become impacted or erupt at a strange angle in the mouth, which can cause pain and discomfort. In this article, we discuss wisdom teeth and the necessity of their removal.

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are another name for the third molars, or the third of the larger teeth that are in the very back of the mouth where you chew most of your food. Most people have three (including the wisdom teeth) permanent molars in each quadrant of the mouth, twelve all together. The first molars usually erupt around age six or so, while second molars erupt around the age of twelve. Third molars, or the wisdom teeth, are the last to erupt if they erupt at all. They are called wisdom teeth because they tend to develop later in life, between the ages of seventeen and twenty-one.

Why do wisdom teeth sometimes need to be removed?

Some wisdom teeth may become impacted or prevented from erupting properly, mainly due to the lack of space in the mouth to fit them. Dr. Mina Levi normally recommends extracting impacted wisdom teeth because they can cause many problems, such as infection, decay of neighbor teeth, gum disease, and tumors. Wisdom teeth that do successfully erupt are often times very difficult to reach and keep clean and may become badly decayed and need to be removed. Other times that erupted wisdom teeth need to be removed include when they are nonfunctional, interfering with your bite, involved with or at risk of gum disease, or causing problems with neighbor teeth or dental restorations. Sometimes wisdom teeth areextracted in order to prevent these things from happening.

How do I know if I need my wisdom teeth removed?

Individuals whose wisdom teeth need to be removed may experience a variety of symptoms, such as pain, infection, and swelling of the face or gums. Dr. Mina Levi will determine whether you need your wisdom teeth removed by taking X-rays and examining your mouth. Wisdom teeth that are not removed will be monitored, as they can cause problems later in life. Extraction is usually an outpatient procedure and can be performed either by a dentist like Dr. Mina Levi or an oral surgeon using local sedation or a general anesthetic.

Are there any complications associated with wisdom tooth extractions?

The most common complication associated with wisdom tooth extractions is called a “dry socket”, a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site does not develop properly or is lost prematurely. This blood clot serves as the foundation for new tissue and bone to develop around the extraction site, so dry socket delays the healing process. To prevent dry socket from occurring, do not smoke, consume carbonated beverages, or drink through a straw after a wisdom tooth extraction. Rinsing with salt water can help keep the area clean after an extraction, but excessive spitting or rinsing can be harmful in the healing process. Normally, using a syringe to rinse the area is sufficient. Before your tooth extraction, make sure to tell Dr. Mina Leviand her dental team about any medications you are taking, as they could interfere with the healing process. To avoid complications, follow Dr. Levi’sinstructions regarding eating and drinking, pain management, and keeping the extraction site clean.

Everyone’s mouth and teeth are different, and only a dental professional can determine whether or not your wisdom teeth need to be removed. If you have concerns regarding your wisdom teeth or would like some more information, give Dr. Mina Levi a call at (415) 513-5066 or visit us on the web to schedule an appointment.

Topics: wisdom teeth, wisdom teeth extractions, wisdom teeth eruption, tooth extraction, impacted wisdom teeth, tooth extraction complications, dry socket, jaw pain, tooth pain, gum disease, dental decay, dental restorations, San Francisco dentist, tooth removal