True or False: Is Tooth Pain Considered a Dental Emergency?

Shortly after waking up one morning, you realize you have a nagging toothache. The pain may not be unbearable, but it’s certainly strong enough to the point where you can’t just brush it off. As a result, you may have several questions running through your head. What should you do? Does it warrant an emergency visit, or can it wait until your next appointment? Luckily, we’re here to help you navigate the situation. Read on to find out when tooth pain requires immediate care, what can happen if you ignore it, and tips to manage your discomfort.

When Is Tooth Pain Considered a Dental Emergency?

Are you able to manage your tooth pain with over-the-counter medication or home remedies? If so, you should be able to wait until your next appointment to talk to your dentist about it. However, if you’re in unbearable pain and nothing can alleviate it, you should contact your emergency dentist as soon as possible for treatment.

Watch out for these signs as they indicate your tooth requires immediate care:

• Pain when pressure is applied to the tooth. If you feel pain when you touch your tooth or bite down on something, it could indicate you have a severe cavity or faulty restoration.
• Swelling around your face or gums. This means an infection has begun spreading to other parts of the body. You should seek immediate dental care before it results in life-threatening consequences.
• A fractured tooth or dental restoration. It will need to be repaired right away. It can become sensitive, and the sharp edge can cut your gums, tongue, or cheek.
• Your tooth is loose or has fallen out. This should never happen to adults and is usually the result of trauma. See your dentist as soon as possible as there could be damage to the nerves or jaw.

What Happens If You Ignore Tooth Pain?

No amount of tooth pain is considered normal, regardless of how mild it is. You should always consult a dental professional when there’s tooth pain as it’s designed to alert you that something’s wrong with your mouth. A chronic toothache is usually the result of cavities or an infection. Failing to seek treatment will allow it to spread to the center of the tooth, infecting the pulp and causing your condition to worsen. If the decay progresses enough, it could eventually lead to the death of the nerve at the root. Initially, your pain will disappear. However, months or years after the nerve dies, it will return with a vengeance and present itself as a fully formed abscess.

Tips to Manage Your Tooth Pain

If you’re suffering from a severe toothache, here’s how to manage it while you wait for your dentist appointment:

• Apply a cold compress on your cheek over the area where the pain is felt
• Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater
• Use dental floss to remove any debris stuck between your teeth
• Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed for relief

A toothache can have severe consequences if left untreated. Luckily, your dentist will be more than happy to offer a solution that will bring you relief so you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy, pain-free smile!

About the Practice

At Happy Smiles, we offer comprehensive, high-quality, and exceptional dental services in one convenient location. From standard checkups to cosmetic dental treatment to emergency dental care, we’ve got everything you and your family need. If you’re suffering from an unbearable toothache, don’t hesitate to contact us for treatment. We’ll provide you with the prompt relief you deserve. Visit our website or call our office to make an appointment.