Anyone who has experienced a toothache knows the discomfort is hard to ignore. Tooth pain can be excruciating, thanks to sensitive nerves in the teeth and the limited space in the pulp that cannot accommodate swelling and pressure common with infection.
If you experience tooth pain, it’s always a good idea to check in with a dental professional, even if it’s minor, intermittent, or seems treatable with over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Tooth pain can be a dental emergency that requires prompt attention.
How can you tell if a toothache is an emergency?
Toothache Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Persistent, Worsening Pain
Any intense pain in your body should be cause for concern, and your mouth is no exception. If you’re suffering severe, throbbing, persistent tooth pain that is unaffected by OTC pain relievers, chances are something is very wrong.
A painful tooth could be a sign of a long-term issue like tooth decay, gum disease, or even a severe infection like an abscess. It could also indicate a tooth fracture or clenching or grinding of teeth (bruxism).
These conditions are unlikely to go away on their own. With swift diagnosis by a dental professional, you can get immediate pain relief and begin treatment to prevent further complications.
Pain When Eating or Drinking
Dental emergencies don’t necessarily arise from sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages, especially if it’s a known issue.
However, if you experience sudden, intense discomfort when biting or chewing hot or cold items, there’s a chance you’re facing something more serious than tooth sensitivity, especially if it’s localized and getting worse.
This symptom could be caused by a cracked tooth or a significant cavity. If you’ve already had dental work in the area, you may have a worn or damaged filling or dental crown. Regardless, it’s important to identify the problem before it worsens and opens the door to infection.
Swelling and Fever
It is estimated that 27% of adults in the U.S. between the ages of 20 and 64 have some level of untreated tooth decay. It starts with minor cavities, which are generally easily treated. However, if left untreated, tooth decay can lead to a much more serious concern: abscesses.
This pocket of infection can spread from your tooth to your jaw, causing swelling and pain in the jaw, gums, cheek, and face. Bumps and pus in the area are another indicator of an abscess, along with fever.
If the infection spreads beyond the tooth and surrounding tissues to enter the bloodstream, it could cause serious complications. When you catch an abscess early, you may be able to save the tooth with a root canal, but advanced cases might require tooth extraction.
Loose Teeth
The roots of teeth are anchored in sockets in the jaw bones and held in place by cementum and the periodontal ligament, a strong connective fiber. This is covered by gum tissue that protects the ligament and roots.
However, if gum tissue becomes inflamed due to gum disease, tooth decay, or bone loss, it may pull away from teeth, leaving a gap for bacteria to enter and flourish, attacking teeth and connective tissues. When this happens, teeth may start to feel loose.
Loose teeth and extreme pain are both dental emergencies on their own. If you experience both, you should seek immediate dental care.
Excessive Bleeding
Thorough brushing, flossing, and rinsing can go a long way toward keeping your teeth and gums healthy, especially when paired with regular dental visits for checkups and cleaning. A lackluster approach to dental care can lead to worsening problems like gum disease and tooth decay.
If you notice bleeding gums when you brush, it’s likely a sign of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), which you should start to treat sooner rather than later to avoid long-term harm.
If you notice excessive bleeding, especially when paired with pain, a foul odor, and a coppery taste in your mouth, it might be a sign of a serious infection, like an abscess, that you need to treat right away.
Don’t Ignore Dental Emergencies
A minor toothache could be treated at home with OTC pain relievers, cold compresses, and rinsing with warm salt water until you can get in to see your dentist. Unbearable tooth pain warrants an emergency visit, as it indicates a serious problem that requires immediate treatment.
Whether you’re experiencing severe tooth pain or looking for preventive treatment to avoid such issues, Dr. Brett Langston is here to help. Book now to get started.
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