Tooth pain can come in many different forms. Sometimes it may simply be a dull ache while in other cases it can be very sharp. You’ll naturally want to have a dentist look at your tooth to find out what’s going on – but just how urgent is the problem? Is your tooth pain a dental emergency that requires immediate attention, or can you afford to wait to schedule an appointment? Here’s what you need to know in order to make the best choice for your smile.
What Can Cause Tooth Pain?
It’s important to remember that tooth pain can have multiple possible causes, such as:
- Tooth decay that went untreated for too long.
- An infection that has spread to the root of the tooth, also known as an abscess.
- Tooth roots that have become exposed as a consequence of gum disease.
- Cracked or broken teeth (which often hurt when you bite down with them or expose them to hot or cold foods).
- Frequent grinding and clenching of the teeth.
By examining your tooth, your dentist can narrow down the underlying source of the pain, which is essential for determining how truly urgent the problem is.
When Is Tooth Pain a Dental Emergency?
Oftentimes, ignoring tooth pain could ultimately lead to bigger problems. For example, if the discomfort is a side effect of an abscess, leaving the infection alone will allow it to spread to the jaw and the neck. In the worst-case scenario, it could even result in life-threatening sepsis.
It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your oral health. Thus, even if you’re not sure that your tooth pain is an emergency, you should call your dentist to see what they recommend. That being said, you will definitely need emergency dental care if:
- You have severe, persistent tooth pain that seems to grow worse over time.
- Your tooth pain is accompanied by fever or swelling in the face or gums.
- The tooth in question is highly sensitive to hot or cold foods.
- The tooth in question is visibly damaged.
How Can You Manage Tooth Pain?
Until you can see your dentist, you’ll need to manage your tooth pain on your own. Taking ibuprofen or a similar kind of over-the-counter pain medication can often help. Additionally, if there’s swelling, you can often reduce it by applying an ice pack to the area for 20-minute intervals.
Of course, home remedies are no substitute for professional treatment. The sooner you can get to your dentist’s office, the sooner you can get the treatment you need to achieve lasting relief from your tooth pain.
About the Author
Dr. Robert Saphner studied dentistry at the University of Minnesota. He has achieved Fellowship status with the Academy of General Dentistry – something that only 6% of dentists in the United States and Canada have managed to do. He’s proud to offer same-day emergency appointments for patients with tooth pain and other urgent dental issues. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Saphner at All Smiles Implants and Family Dental in La Crosse, visit his website or call (608) 668-6415.