More than 200 million people experience toothaches every year. Although they are common, it is not normal. Tooth pain is a sign of an underlying problem that may require immediate dental care. Toothaches can take many forms, so how do you know when it’s a dental emergency? Here’s how to determine if you require urgent care from a dentist.
Common Causes of Toothaches
Toothaches can be caused by many things. Depending on the type of pain you’re experiencing, it can help you determine if you need to see a dentist immediately or if you can wait for their next availability. Common causes and types of tooth pain include:
- Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is a leading cause of sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. You can also experience discomfort when placing pressure on a tooth or inhaling cold air quickly.
- An Infection: If tooth decay is not treated, bacteria can reach the innermost layer of your tooth, called the pulp. This can result in a painful infection that will cause worsening discomfort. If your pain suddenly disappears, it can mean your tooth has died and will need to be extracted.
- Chip or Fracture: Not all chips and fractures are easy to spot. You can experience a sharp stabbing pain when placing pressure on a specific tooth. With no treatment, you can suffer additional damage and be at risk of an infection.
Don’t Ignore Tooth Pain
Tooth pain should not be ignored. Although the issue might be simple, like a cavity, dental pain can also be a symptom of something more serious, like an infection. Delaying treatment can cause the issue to worsen until your tooth can no longer be saved. As a result, it will need to be removed and replaced with a prosthetic, which can get costly.
Managing Toothaches at Home
It is best to contact your dentist right away and explain the situation. They’ll set up an appointment to examine your tooth. Here are a few tips to help manage your pain while you wait:
- Take a Pain Reliever: Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
- Choose Foods Wisely: Eat soft foods and avoid those that are hot or cold.
- Apply a Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Sleep with Your Head Elevated: Elevating your pillow will prevent blood from pooling in your head to avoid throbbing sensations.
- Rinse with Salt Water: Rinsing your mouth with salt water can reduce pain and swelling. It is also a natural antiseptic to kill bacteria.
Your emergency dentist will determine what’s causing your discomfort and create an effective treatment plan to stop your pain and save your tooth.
About Dr. Lancen Halbert
Dr. Halbert earned his dental degree at The Medical University of South Carolina and has continued his education to provide cutting-edge services, including emergency dentistry. He can treat the most complex oral health issues using the latest technologies and techniques. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (864) 428-0319.