Is Tooth Pain Considered a Dental Emergency?

Are you experiencing discomfort in your teeth when eating, talking, or at rest? While it can sometimes be a mild case, a toothache is usually frustrating, and it could be a sign of an underlying issue if it doesn’t go away. For this reason, it’s important to seek help from you dentist just in case. Read on to learn why tooth pain is considered a dental emergency, what can happen if left unchecked, and how you can treat it!

What Causes a Toothache?

Your teeth can become sensitive for a variety of reasons, some of them milder than others. Maybe you ate something, and some food particles got stuck between your pearly whites. These cases can usually go away by themselves after some time. Others, however, may persist, signifying an underlying problem. Several of these reasons include:

• Grinding/Clenching of the teeth (bruxism)
• Trauma to the tooth
• Arthritis in the jaw
• Tooth infection
• Cavities
• Impacted wisdom tooth

What Happens If Tooth Pain Is Left Untreated?

If your toothache lingers and becomes unbearable, then you should definitely seek an emergency dentist. The longer you wait, the more uncomfortable you’ll be and the quicker the issue can become worse. In the case of a tooth infection, the disease could reach all the way to the roots and affect the nerves. This can actually cause you to lose sensitivity, and it can then spread to other parts of your mouth and body. To avoid the risk of further damage or tooth loss, you can instead have your dentist assess and treat your teeth right away.

How Can You Treat a Toothache?

Until you visit your dentist, there are some ways you can address your toothache. These methods involve:

• Using a cold pack/compress over your cheek where the pain is to reduce swelling.
• Taking OTC pain relievers
• Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water
• Using dental floss to remove any stubborn debris

By seeking dental care right away, you can be sure to address or avoid any serious issues from getting worse. Consult your dentist if you ever begin experiencing a toothache, and they’ll help you manage your situation as smoothly as possible!

About the Author

Dr. Travis A. Markle received his dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He’s a proud member of the Southwest Academy of Restorative Dentistry, the American College of Dentists, and the American and Texas Dental Associations. He provides outstanding and comprehensive dental treatments, including emergency dentistry to help treat or restore your healthy smile. If you want to know more about how toothaches are dental emergencies, visit his website or call him at 903-597-7902.