Is severe toothache a dental emergency?

Pain in your body is often a sign there’s something wrong. Like most people, you might have experienced a toothache at some point. Many things can cause toothache. A toothache is usually a sign of tooth decay, dental trauma, tooth bruxism, and periodontal disease.

Should you seek emergency treatment for a toothache?

Toothaches can be mild to severe. If you only have a mild toothache, you can always wait until after work or after the dental office opens to seek treatment. You don’t need to call your dentist for treatment in the middle of the night. Still, seek treatment as soon as possible, as delayed treatment can lead to further damage or tooth loss.

If you’re experiencing severe pain that won’t stop or worsens even after taking medication, it’s about time you call your dentist or visit an emergency dental clinic near you. The dentist will diagnose the problem and take the necessary steps to solve the issue. The condition will likely worsen without immediate treatment, causing unbearable pain and discomfort. Eventually, the tooth may even die or fall out.

Emergency dental care also eliminates the need for more invasive and costly treatments to reverse the condition. You’ll also be at peace knowing that your issue is under control. It also means you can resume your normal daily routine quickly. Common toothache treatments include dental fillings, root canals, periodontal treatments, and night guards.

When is a toothache a dental emergency?

Several symptoms can prompt the need for emergency treatment. The symptoms often vary from one patient to another. Seek immediate dental care if you have a toothache accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Severe tooth pain

You should seek emergency treatment if you have severe and persistent pain that worsens even after over-the-counter medications. The pain can worsen when pressure is applied by touch or when eating. Severe tooth pain often indicates severe tooth decay or an exposed tooth nerve.

• Tooth sensitivity

You may need urgent care if you experience severe sensitivity to extreme heat, cold, or sugary items. In most cases, tooth sensitivity often indicates exposed tooth nerves or roots. Immediate treatment is essential to treat the exposed parts of the teeth, get relief, and prevent further damage.

• Swollen gums

Severe tooth decay and gum recession can expose the tooth’s roots, causing toothache and gum swelling and sensitivity. The gums may feel sore on touch and bleed when brushing or eating. These symptoms are considered emergencies, and you should seek prompt treatment.

• Loose tooth

A loose tooth can result from dental trauma or severely receded gums. Immediate treatment for a loose tooth is essential to stabilize the tooth, alleviate discomfort, and prevent tooth loss.

• Bad taste in the mouth

A persistent bad mouth taste or odor could indicate a severely decayed tooth, advanced periodontal disease, or cancer. Urgent dental care is essential to determine the underlying condition and freshen your breath.

• Swollen jaw

Tooth pain accompanied by swelling around the jaw, ear, and neck can signify an infection spreading to other body parts. If not treated promptly, the infection can spread to vital organs like the brain and heart, causing life-threatening complications. A swollen jaw may be accompanied by difficulty swallowing or breathing.

• Dental abscess

Emergency treatment is essential if you notice a pus-filled pimple around a painful tooth. An infection often causes a dental abscess, and you should treat it urgently to prevent the infection from spreading.

• Fever

Sometimes toothaches are accompanied by a fever. A fever often indicates that your body is fighting an infection. You should treat infection around a tooth promptly to prevent the infection from spreading to vital organs of the body like the brain.

How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

• Brush and floss daily.
• Wear a night guard for bruxism.
• Schedule frequent dental check-ups and cleanings.
• Avoid tobacco products.
• Wear a sports guard during contact sports.
• Avoid abrasive dental products.
• Limit acidic and sugary food items.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you looking for emergency dentistry in Bristol, CT? Contact Admire Dental – Bristol to speak with our emergency dentist today.