Tooth pain can vary in intensity from slight discomfort to excruciating agony that makes it difficult to concentrate on anything else. Regardless of the level of pain, tooth pain always indicates an underlying dental problem that needs to be addressed before it worsens. Delaying treatment could lead to complications that may result in more pain, costly treatments, or even tooth loss. Thankfully, emergency dental care is available in cases where tooth pain becomes unbearable and requires immediate attention. This blog post will explore when to see an emergency dentist for tooth pain and what to expect during an emergency dental visit.
Constant Pain:
If you have constant, unrelenting tooth pain, it may be time to seek emergency dental care. Continuous toothaches that do not subside with over-the-counter painkillers or basic dental care could indicate a severe dental issue. The constant pain could be caused by an abscess, a cracked or chipped tooth, or an impacted tooth. These problems can cause severe pain and, without urgent treatment, may lead to severe bacterial infections that could cause further illness.
Swelling:
If you notice any swelling in your gums or cheeks along with tooth pain, it is an indication of a severe dental problem, and you should seek emergency dental attention right away. Swelling may indicate an abscess, which is an infection that develops in the gums or root of a tooth. An abscess can lead to more significant problems if left untreated and cause severe pain that radiates in your jaw or neck.
Bleeding:
Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing could be an indication of gum disease, but it could also be a sign of a more severe dental issue, depending on the severity. If your gums are bleeding and you are experiencing tooth pain, it is essential to seek emergency dental care immediately. Bleeding gums could indicate tooth decay, which can lead to abscesses, bone loss, and tooth loss.
Trauma:
A dental emergency is not always caused by a toothache alone. A chipped, broken, or knocked-out tooth is also considered a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. Any trauma to the teeth or jaw could lead to nerve damage or other severe dental problems over time.
Foul Taste/Breath:
If you have a foul taste or even a foul odour coming from your mouth, you may have a dental infection and should seek dental care immediately. A dental infection typically has a bad taste or odour, accompanied by other symptoms such as inflammation or severe tooth pain. It is critical to address dental infections promptly, as they can spread and cause severe health complications if left untreated.
